AND 



FAITH WORK 



»«r*>* 



t 



LIBRARY OF CONGRESS, \ 



UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. 




% 




^^yunuA/ 



LjIFE SKETGHES 



AND 



Kaith W^ork 



OF 




Elder W G, Raymond, 



•• 



WRITTEN BY HIMSELF. 




BOSTON: 

^'Washington Press:" Geo. E. Crosby & Co., Printers, 

383 Washington Street, 

1891. 



, If 37/^3 



Preface. 




N the presentation of this book to the public, the 

honor and glor}' of God has been in view. Id 

writing it, I have aimed at no intellectual merity 

and claim none for it. I have, however, sought 

for, in this work, the highest order of wisdom, that 

which comes from above, through the inspiration of 

the Holy Ghost. Many of the experiences related and teachings^ 

advanced herein, may be rejected and even scoffed at by the- 

nominal Christian. 

But there is a large class that are walking in the light of" GbcT 
and claiming all the promises of His Word, who, we believe, will 
be encouraged and benefited by perusing these pages. For ally 
we pray that the Holy Spirit may lead them into the truth an^ 
teach them how to resist and overcome the Evil One. 



W. G. Raymond,^ 



Inscription. 




/O my dear children and grand-children, who I trust 
not only hold a natural, but a spiritual relation to 
me, and to those who have been co-laborers with 
me in the Gospel and patience of Jesus Christ, 
and to those who are earnestly contending " for 
the faith once delivered to the saints," and to 
those who have received spiritual and physical blessing under 
my hand in and through the name and merits of our Lord and 
Saviour Jesus Christ, this volume is affectionately inscribed. 



W. G. Raymond. 



Contents. 



PAGES 

Chapter E 5-13 

Birth — Parental Influence — Conrersion — Early Experience — 
Labors with Elder Jacob Knapp. 

Chapter II. ........ 14-23 

Discouragements — Call to Preach — School — Home with Brother 
Knapp — Further Labors. 

Chapter III. 24-31 

Ordination — Marriage — Various Pastorates — Births of Chil- 
dren — Wife's Death — Second Marriage — Mission Work 
— Losses — Perils. 

Chapter IV 32-47 

1861 — Off to the War — Birth and Death of Willie the Idol — 
Various Incidents in the Service as First Lieutenant — 
Provost Guard, and Liquor Spilling, and wonderful Freaks 
of Depravity — Chaplaincy — with Lincoln's Lithographed 
Commission. 

Chapter V. 48-63 

Detective Incidents — Eaising Regiment of Colored Men — 
War Meetings — Newspaper Reports — Book Business — 
Call to the Indian Reservation — Letters from Noted Men — 
One Year on Reservation — Other Mission Fields. 

Chapter VI 64-100 

Surgery, Medicine and Associations with Doctors — Political 
Life — Its Baneful Influences — The Chastening Hand — 
Bereavement — An Invalid — Losses — Further Bereave- 
ment — Grasshopper Plague — Search for Health — Great 
Mistake — Healing — Second Coming — Kept Healed and 
Saved — Worker again in the Vineyard — Healing and Sal- 
vation — Casting Out Devils — The Blind Made to See; 
the Lame to Walk; the Deaf to Hear, and the Dumb to 
Speak — Brother Burke's Experience. 



11 CONTENTS. 

PAGE9 

Chapter VII. . . . . . . . . 101-112 

Healing in the Churches — Faith Home — Another Faith Home, 
each in Baltimore, Md. — Minnie Addick's Case — Galls 
from the Home — Healing by the Way — Convictions of 
Future Duty — Closing the Home — Labors in other Places. 

Chapter VIII. ........ 113-125^ 

Baptism and Lord's Supper — Jesus our Example in Labors — 
Proofs of Safety and Defence. 

Chapter IX 126-140 

Mt. Jewett — Word by the Way — Elmira — Various Places in 
Massachusetts — ^^Back to Lansingburgh — In Vermont — 
Jersey City and Vicinity — Again in Lansingburgh — Back 
to Jersey City. 

Chapter X. . . . . . . . . . 141-151 

How I was Led to Kesist and Cast Out Devils — Special Cases 
— Overcoming by Testimony and Prayer — Shaking the 
Dust from My Feet. 

Chapter XI 152-187 

The Word Elder, its Origin and Use — Divine and Faith Heal- 
ing — The Blood of Christ Deposited in the Holiest of 
Holies. 

Chapter XII 188-204 

A Bird's-eye Sketch of the Wonderful Work of Grace in Chel- 
sea, Boston, and not only the Surrounding Cities, but ex- 
tending through the United States, and into various Foreign 
Countries — Marvellous and marked beyond expression 
have been many cases of the Casting Out of Devils, and 
of obtaining full Salvation through Faith in the Blood of 
our Lord Jesus Christ. 

Chapter XIII . 205-217 

A Brief of the Work in Chelsea, Boston and Surroundings, 
Commencing in the Month of November, 1890. 

Chapter XIV . . . 218-28^ 

A few Extracts from Letters, from Correspondents in Different 
Parts of the United States, showing something of the mag- 
nitude of my Work, although time and space will not permit 
me to notice one in a hundred — Correspondence with Dr. 
Simpson, Elsey, &c. 

Chapter XV. 290-304 

What is Man? according to the Scriptures — Physical Devel- 
opment of Man — Ezekiel, Chapter xxxiv. — Jeremiah, 
Chapter xxiii. 



Illustrations. 



Elder W. G. Raymond, ..... Frontispiece, 
Commission as First Lieutenant, from Gov. 

Morgan, N. Y Opposite Page 33 

Chaplain Raymond, " '* 42 

Maj.-Gen. C. C. Augur, (with letter). . " " 61 

Beulah Land, Plate No. 1, . . • " "83 

*' *' '' No. 2, . . . u ii 85. 

Plate No. 3, Rock of Ages, , . . tc tt ggj 

*' No. 4, " '' Showing Face in Rock. '' " lOO 

Faith Home, Baltimore, Md., . . . " *' lOS 

The Boatman's Bethel, (with Frank Leslie's letter). ** " 159) 

Portrait of Josie Holthusen. . . . '* *' 171 

Portrait of Maggie Perry and Aunt . " *' 188- 

Dr. J. T. Kent and Wife, (with letters) . " ** 282 

Family Portraits, (with notes). . , " " 28T 



I wish to express my appreciation of Geokge E. Cbosbt & Co., 383 

Washington Street, Boston, for their gentlemanly deportment and upright- 
ness, as well as that of the firm generally; regarding them as most 
reliable in the execution of their work, and the courtesy and kindness 
received in their office will be remembered. With their many cylinder 
steam presses and extended facilities, together with a large force of intelli- 
gent, active men, I believe they will give ready satisfaction to all who may 
choose to employ them. When they set their price, it means good material 
and perfect work. 



I wish to make mention of the firm of Stark, Churchill & Co., litho- 
graphers, 295 Washington Street, Boston, but in particular of Mr. Churchill, 
the financial agent, with whom my business has been transacted, and which 
has been most satisfactory and prompt, considering the large amount of 
business that comes under their supervision. The lithographic plates, and 
signatures in my book, will speak their own recommendations. And of the 
courteous attention received in this office I can speak, as of Messrs. Crosby 
& Co., who recommended them to me. 



Chapter I. 




Birth, Parental Influence, Conversion, Early Experience^ 
AND Labors with Elder Jacob Knapp. 



WAS born July 4th, 1819, in the town of Milo, Yates- 
County, N. Y. When but a child, my parents 
moved three miles north of Geneva, N. Y., at the 
foot of Seneca Lake, where I resided until 18 years- 
old. My parents were both members of the Baptist 
Church. My mother often carried me to God in 
prayer, but as I grew up to manhood, I drifted away 
from the religious counsels of my parents. One night returning 
home at a late hour, feeling that I had reached about the highest 
point of earthly pleasure, I cautiously approached the door so as 
not to disturb my parents. The sound of weeping reached my 
ears. I listened and heard father say to mother, " I am afraid 
William is lost." The sound of their sobs and prayers that nighty 
never left me. Wherever I went, the words kept ringing in my 
ears, " William is lost! William is lost!" Yet for some time I 
would not yield to the conviction this produced. In the fall of 
1837 a protracted meeting was held in the Baptist Church, Elder 
Miller, pastor, the Evangelist Jacob Knapp having charge of the 
meetings. At these meetings nearly two hundred were brought to 
a saving knowledge of Christ. Ed. Way burn and I had proposed 
not to attend these meetings and to prevent others from doing so. 
But ever}'- day, for two weeks, my parents requested prayers for 
me. Elder K. said to them, '' Bring your son to the church." 
My father replied, " He is beyond our control." " Then," said 
Elder K., " we will pray him here." They did pray me there. I 
shall never forget the joy my mother manifested when I said ta 
her " Mother, I am going to church today." Friend Wayburn 
and I started together, but entered the church intending only to- 
act as spies to report the novelties of a revival service. During 



-6 LIFE SKETCHES OF 

iihe morning service there was nothing of special interest to report, 
•so we resolved *to return to the afternoon meeting, as they 
intended to invite to the anxious seat all who were under conviction 
of sin. However, I would not return until I secured from friend 
Wayburn a solemn promise that he would not forsake me. The 
•sermon brought no special conviction, but when they invited 
people to the anxious seat, I found mj'self getting very nervous and 
excited. The devil said, "Now if 3'ou should go forward and 
•get to weeping, you know you have no pocket handkerchief" (as 
^mother in her joyful haste had forgotten to give me one) . This 
only made me indignant and I said angrily, " I don't intend to go 
-forward." My restlessness increased as I saw my father go to 
tny brother David and then immediately come to me in a flood of 
tears, exclaiming " Oh, my son, my dear son William, won't you 
:go forward? David says he'll go if you will " (meaning my eldest 
■^brother) . I made no reply. I became more stubborn and deter- 
mined not to go. Scores of unconverted friends came up before 
me, seeming to say, " Will, don't you go. You have too bright a 
prospect for pleasure before you," but God had sent my father 
-and was not to leave me until I was subdued. His vx)ice still 
pleaded, " Oh, William, won't you go? Won't you go? " At this 
^crisis, my friend Wa3'burn said, " Will, let's go. I'll go if you 
will." This seemed more than I could bear. I felt like knocking 
f^him from the seat. I looked around to see if some one would not 
'laugh, but the whole congregation were weeping. This added 
another dagger to my heart. As I turned to look behind me, a 
lady spoke as only a mother could, '• William, do go for your 
father's sake." God had got hold of me and he did not intend to 
let me go. The devil had a strong hold, too. He said, " You 
^ave been insulted. You had better leave and never enter 
^another church." I resolved to obey my master (the devil,) but 
as my props went out, I rose up saying, "Ed, let's go; they 
-will never let us alone," and started for the anxious seat, still 
-with an inward purpose never to enter the church again. As I 
took the seat, I said in my heart, " Now, make the best of it for 
you will never have another chance." When others knelt my 
.stubborn heart refused to kneel. Prayer was offered and every 
• one carried my case to God. This impressed me that my case 
ifnust be a desperate one and I had made a mistake in not kneeling, 
ithus making myself a target for all the prayers that should be 



ELDER W. G. RAYMOND. 7 

offered. I cannot remember ever feeling more ashamed than 
when I began to kneel. Getting on my knees for the first time in 
my life, as far as I can recollect, I buried my face in my hands. 
The first serious inquirj' was, " Why are all these Christians 
praying for me? I do not want religion," but a voice said, " Be- 
cause you are in. danger." Thinking of my vow never to enter a 
church again, T said, " I believe I am in danger." I felt as if 
my salvation turned on a pivot. The same voice said, " When 
will yon attend to this subject?" I never had thought of fixing 
the time^ but as the power of God came upon me I said, " Lord, I 
will attend to it now." I then felt for a few moments that I was 
sinking into hell and cried mightily with many tears to God to 
have mercy and save my poor soul. I yielded up the world and 
said " Farewell, vain world." Suddenly the burden fell from my 
soul. I rose to my feet and joined in the song of praise. " God 
had taken m}' feet from the horrible pit and mirfy clay," and 
placed them on the Rock of Ages. In a moment m}" arms were 
around father's neck, confessing my waywardness and asking Him 
to forgive me. He pressed me to his heart, thanking God that 
his son was saved. I saw all my brothers and sisters hopefully 
converted ; also scores of vay intimate friends and associates dur- 
ing this revival. I was immersed in the Seneca Lak6 by Elder 
Miller and joined the Baptist Church. Immediately after my 
conversion, I went out into the neighborhood holding meetings and 
leading souls to Christ. 

I labored with Bro. Knapp at Seneca Falls, N. Y., (for 
several weeks,) and believe, that under God, I led scores of souls 
to Christ. Let us here relate one remarkable incident that 
occurred during the progress of that meeting. 

Bro. Knapp appointed an all night prayer meeting, as the work 
seemed, as he said, blockaded. ' One was commenced in a private 
house. After praying until between eleven and twelve, a minister 
who had charge of the meeting, said that the Lord knew all things, 
and that we should certainly feel better to go to our beds and 
sleep. So the meeting was dismissed much to our disappoint- 
ment. The next night, after leaving the church and while on our 
way to our lodging, I remarked to Bro. Crittenden, a brother 
who had been saved a little before in one of my meetings, " If I 
thought the church was not locked, we would return and hold an 
all night prayer meeting. He replied, " I am willing to go back 



8 LIFE SKETCHES OF 

with you." Returning to the church we found it unlocked and 
entered. I said, *' Now we want to know what to pray for. 
Let's pray that God will send the people into the church and so 
disturb the people in the city that they cannot rest and give a new 
impetus to the meeting." The house was not lighted. Kneeling 
before the Lord, we prayed alternately for perhaps three or four 
hours, when the Holy Ghost made intercession for us in a very 
special manner and kept me in travail of soul and wrestling 
prayer until the break of day. I realized that people were coming 
in and going out during all this time, but it had no power to divert 
my mind or interrupt this intercession with God. While thus 
exercised the thought came, that perhaps this was the last prayer 
I should ever offer, (for I had no power to stop) and that when I 
should get through I would be with God. Then " whether in the 
body I cannot tell ; or whether out of the body I cannot tell : 
God knoweth," but I entered Paradise and saw what the Spirit 
of God has never led me to reveal. As I looked down from the 
height to which I was caught up, I saw a literal lake of fire and 
brimstone, and thousands of people passing down an inclined 
plane and falling into that bottomless pit. As I became conscious 
of being in the body again, the thought occurred to me, " Where 
am I?" for I seemed not to be touching anything on earth, but 
to be going down and upon opening my eyes, seemed to be four 
feet above the pews and went down to the floor like a feather. 
Feeling exhausted, I lopped over on to a seat. There was not a 
dry thread in my clothing. Lying, probably, five or ten minutes I 
said to Bro. C, "Let us now go to our rooms." As we were 
passing out, two persons sat in the vestibule. Laying my hand 
on one of them I said, "God bless you!" and passed on. 
"Whether they were angels or men, I never could determine. 
God knows. That day, I lost my voice and yielded to the tempt- 
ation to go home for treatment. I say temptation^ for I believe 
that had I taken it to the Lord, my voice would have returned, as 
did the sight of Saul. Acts, 9, 17, 18. 

Mother doctored me all night, and I was in great distress 
physically. Early in the morning, I slipped away to a place 
where I was wont to pray. On my way thither, I said to the 
Lord, " Lord, if you will heal me, I will go right back to Seneca 
Falls." The moment I fell on mj' knees, I was perfectly healed 
and returned to the house singing and praising God. I said to 



ELDER W. G. RAYMOND. ^ 

mother, " I am going to Seneca Falls today." She replied, " No, 
William ; wait one night more, I know better than j^ou." Her 
advice was taken. During the day, I visited a friend and was all 
right until four o'clock, when something said, " I thought you 
promised to go to Seneca Falls today?" 1 replied, " But mother 
thought I hadn't better go." That moment my voice again failed 
and my illness returned worse than before. Hastening to mother, 
she said, " Now, William, you see, I know best." Again 
she doctored me all night. This was the third night without sleep. 
Early in the morning I again repaired to the place of prayer and 
said to the Lord, " If you will heal me this time, I will not ' confer 
with flesh and blood,' but go to Seneca Falls today." As before 
I was immediately healed. Going to mother, I said, " I am 
going to Seneca Falls today." As she commenced to protest, I 
said, "Mother, ask me no questions, for I am certainly going to 
Seneca Falls today." I went, and had no more trouble with my 
throat. I was informed that infidels and other unsaved men were- 
walking their rooms under conviction of sin all that night we 
prayed in the church. From that time the Lord wrought power- 
full}^ among the people and hundreds of souls were saved and 
added to the different churches. 

1 was also with Bro. Knapp at Elmira, N. Y., where the Lord 
wonderfully blessed my labors in visiting the families in the 
cit}^, and the mighty power of God was manifested on many who 
were the subjects of pra3'er and labors in these religious visits. 

From Elmira, I accompanied Bro. K. to Kochester, where w& 
labored about three months in the First Baptist Church, Dr. 
Church, pastor. Here, I believe, that over one hundred were led 
to Christ through my instrumentality, while Bro. Knapp was 
instrumental in the salvation of thousands. One Saturday morn- 
ing, the Preceptress of a young ladies' seminary, a lady of marked 
piety, as well as of literary attainments, brought nearly all her 
pupils to the church. It being early, I was the only one in the 
prayer room. She asked who had charge of the meeting and wa& 
told that I had that morning. " Well," said she, " these 3'oung 
ladies are all unsaved, and I want you to lead them to Christ. "^ 
For a few moments, I related how the Lord saved me. There 
was a wonderful demonstration of the convicting power of the 
Hoi}' Ghost, so that they voluntarily fell on their knees and cried, 
" God be merciful to me a sinner." In less than an hour all were 



10 LIFE SKETCHES OF 

saved and man}- others who had come in. This teacher then 
invited me to visit the seminary and, if possible, to lead others to 
dhrist. I spent one day there, instructing those who had been 
saved and successfully labored for the salvation of others. 

Here, in Rochester, by the request of Dea. Sage, at whose 
house I was entertained, my first sermon was preached, this 
sermon being directed to those who had been saved during this 
very remarkable revival. There was a large audience, but God 
worked in me mightily. " My speech and m}' preaching was not 
with enticing words of man's wisdom, but in demonstration of the 
Spirit and of power." Bro. Sage came to me at the close of the 
service and putting his hand on my shoulder, said, Bro. R. you let 
the H0I3' Ghost speak through you." As this was the parting 
service, all rushed up and gave me their hands with manj^ expres- 
sions of appreciation and gratitude for the sermon and for what I 
had done under God in leading them to Christ. This was very 
encouraging for I had feared I should break down and have a 
failure. Bro. Knapp usually called upon me to pra}" just before 
he preached, for he said the Holy Ghost prayed through me, so 
that he felt the power of it all through his sermon. Still, young 
as I was, the Lord kept me from spiritual pride, for my life was 
truly " hidden with Christ in God." I realized that God's 
strength was made perfect in my weaknesss that of myself I could 
do nothing. Not only was God's saving grace, but his healing 
power was manifested at Rochester. I was asked to visit a lady 
whose name I have forgotten, that was suffering from nervous 
prostration and the last stages of consumption, and was unsaved. 
I prayed not only for her salvation but recovery, and she was 
immediately raised up and saved. 

One more feature of the revival work in Rochester, was the rage 
of Satan, as manifested by the bitter opposition to Bro. K., this 
opposing party being led by gamblers and infidels and other lewd 
persons. Having been an eye witness, I testifj^ regarding it, to 
show how God stands by his faithful servants who dare to preach 
plainly against all manner of sin. One of the gamblers by the 
name of Lee was converted in this revival and has since become a 
minister of the Gospel. He informed Bro. K. how gambling was 
going on every night in the Monroe House in doubl}^ sealed rooms. 
While Bro. K. was publicly exposing this in the church one night, 
one of the gamblers rose up in the congregation and with an oath 



ELDER W. G. RAYMOND. 11 

raised his hand saying, "You are a liar." Dea. Sage stepped 
forward to have him arrested. Bro. K said, " Do not 
put your hand on him. The Lord will attend to him. A 
wounded bird always flutters." Then and there that man's hand 
was withered. Years after, I heard that it was still withered, and 
I believe was to the day of his death. This made the devil and 
many of his children mad. 

One morning handbills were scattered all over the citj' inviting 
all the respectable citizens to meet before the First Baptist Church 
at 8 p. M., " to consider whether the Rev. Jacob Knapp should 
be retained any longer." That day was one for prayer and fast- 
ing. Bro. Sage expressed in the meeting serious fears, because 
the officer upon whom he relied was away. Bro. K. remarked 
that the officer upon whom he relied was never awa}^ or off from 
duty, and instead of gossiping about these things he desired them 
to pray to God who would certainly give them deliverance. Night 
<5ame. The basement of the church was filled with praying peo- 
ple. The large audience room was packed to its utmost capacity, 
long before the hour of service. This was in mid-winter. When 
I went to the church, the sky was clear, except a small cloud that 
hung over the west part of the city. By half-past seven it was 
estimated that between one and two thousand people of the most 
desperate characters had gathered in front of the church and 
-along the street. 

One of this crowd stepped up to one of the Christian workers, 
mistaking him for one of the opposition party and said, pre- 
senting him with a pistol, " You know w^here the tar and feathers 
are. Be ready to work ; " then seeing his mistake he snatched 
the pistol and disappeared in the crowd. They first undertook to 
press in, up the isles to where Bro. K. was, but failed because the 
isles were so packed. Then they cried " Fire ! " to get the peo- 
ple out, but Bro. K. raised his hand and said, as the audience 
started, " Be seated. It is a false alarm, a trick of the devil. I 
will ascertain in a minute." He did so, and all were quiet. Then 
he said, " I have a sermon to preach and shall preach it unless I 
am shot down in my desk. I arR prepared to die.*' 

The next was a fiank movement. They came into a vacant lot 
between the M. E. church and Baptist church passing down to the 
last window opposite Bro. K. They commenced throwing stones 
into the window. Bro. K. raised his hand and said, " They do 



12 LIFE SKETCHES OF 

not want to hurt you but to Mil me. Kneel down." All knelt 
and cried all over the house '' God have mercy on us," while Bro. 
K. was perfectly calm. At that moment a flash of lightning be- 
fore which the lights in the church paled. Another volley of 
stones came, followed by a clap of thunder that shook the city 
and sent confusion and consternation into the ranks outside, but 
another volley of stones came in with another flash of lightning 
more brilliant, if possible, than the other. Now a few scattering 
stones and a peal of thunder that so confused them that they 
rushed one upon another. So said Mrs. Dea. Butts, living across 
the road. A few minutes before eight the crowd dispersed, which 
was reported to Bro. K. Then taking out his watch, he said, " It 
is now eight o'clock, the time they set to meet, and they are now 
dispersed and no one seriously hurt." We returned from the 
meeting to Dea. Sage's and retired for the night, his bedroom fac- 
ing one street and mine the other. We had just fallen asleep^, 
when a volle}^ of stones were thrown into the room adjoining Bro. 
K.'s, breaking the windows in. The assailants mistook the room. 
Bro. K. raised his window and cried out " Run you dogs, run," 
and I could hear them for two squares running on the sidewalk. 
No policemen near. " The wicked flee when no man pursueth,. 
but the righteous are as bold as a lion." 

In a few days after, Bro. Jacob Knapp took his departure. As 
the stage came around (for he had nine miles to travel by stage) the 
Rev. Mr. Beecher, of the brick church seated himself in the stage 
to accompany him ; also Bro. Sage and myself. As we passed 
the Monroe House, a brass band in a carriage, at the instance of 
that gambling house, fell in behind the stage and followed, play- 
ing The Rogue's March until we reached the Eagle Hotel. Here 
the stage halted, when a fine looking man stepped up and seized 
Bro. K. by the coat and made an effort to pull him out of the 
stage, tearing a new broadcloth coat in doing so and saying 
" You've got to come with me. Sir," but he was unable to move 
Bro K. 

The rabble cried, "Drag the wretch out! Drag him out!" 
The Rev. Mr. Beecher (I mean the one-eyed Beecher) drew his- 
fist and was about to fell the man to the ground, when Dea. Sage 
took his arm saying " don't strike, don't strike my brother, this is 
the sheriff of Monroe County." "Oh!" said Bro. K., "the 
sheriff! Step down, Sir, and I'll step out." He did so, and ac- 



ELDER W. G. RAYMOND. 13 

companied him before the judge. Bro. K. said " Your honor, 
what do you want of me?" '* I want forty thousand dollars bond 
to appear before the court to answer to the charge of slander on 
the Monroe House." The bail was given in five minutes by Dea. 
Sage and others. Bro. K. said, " Is that all. Sir?" " Yes, you 
can go, now." Bro. K. said " Let us pray," and fell upon his 
knees. The Judge said " No matter about praying," but he did 
pray for the judge, the sheriff, and his persecutors. As he re- 
turned to the stage, Dr. Tucker, a Baptist minister, took him by 
the hand, saying, " I believe you are a man of God, and if j'ou 
will tarry you can go right into my church and hold another meet- 
ing." This he said with tears in his eyes. He had heretofore 
stood aloof from him. Bro. K. thanked him for his kindness, but 
said, " my engagements are such that I cannot at present." He 
left the city triumphing over all his enemies. He was never called 
to trial. 




Chapter II. 



Discouragements, Call to Preach, School, Home with 
Bro. Knapp, Further Labors. 

ROM Rochester I returned home and commenced to 
^ labor on the farm, undertaking to chop some wood. 




Father noticing that the work progressed very slowly, 
said to mother one day, " I'll go down into the woods 
and watch him." This he did, unbeknown to me. 
Returning to mother, he said, " We've got to give up 
William to the Lord. He is preaching and praying 
all the time. I see now why so little wood is chopped. He raises- 
his axe high as if to strike a blow, but holds it there, seemingly 
unconscious, sometimes it seems as tho' nearly half an hour, as if 
absorbed in thought, then strikes the blow and down he gets on 
to his knees and prays, and now noon has come and no wood 
chopped." Soon after this Bro. Hadley, a member of the church 
to which we belonged, a man of great power in prayer, said to 
me, " William, the Lord has called you to preach the gospel." I 
replied, " Bro. Hadley, I can't preach. I don't know enough.'*^ 
He answered, " We are going to send you to Hamilton." 

In a few weeks, by request of the church, I preached a sermon 
preparator}" to going to Hamilton to study for the ministry. I 
suppose it gave satisfaction, as a license to preach was then 
granted me by the church. In a few months I was on my way to 
Hamilton. Coming into Gettesburgh, I was moved to commence 
a special meeting for the salvation of souls, which effort the Lord 
signally blessed. Arriving at Hamilton, Bro. Knapp, who re- 
sided there, desired me to live in his family while a student in the 
College, taking the oversight of things when he would be absent 
in his evangelistic work. This gave me the rare opportunity of 
hearing, on his return from his various fields of labor, what the 



ELDER W. G. RAYMOND. 1^ 

Lord had wrought through him. He would sit for hours giving me 
in detail the accounts of wonderful deliverances from enemies, and 
the marked cases of conversion, and instructing me in the secret 
of success in preaching the Gospel of Jesus Christ. I also had 
the privilege of attending some of his evangelistic services. I 
was with him in Bennington, Vt. The power of God was there ta 
convict and save sinners, which enraged those who would not have 
Christ to rule over them, and greatly disturbed the devil. Within 
one year after this, thirty persons of the opposing class died with- 
out a moment's warning. The thirtieth one was killed just a few 
days before my second visit to that place. He had fallen back- 
wards down cellar, breaking his skull, so that his brains were scat- 
tered over the cellar. Another had fallen from a wagon and broken 
his neck. 

For some two months, I remained in Bennington after Bro. 
K.'s labors there ceased, holding meetings in both the Baptist and 
Presbyterian churches. During this time, this ungodly clique of 
thirt}' took the tongue from the bell of the church. One night 
while the house was crowded, even the side galleries, I was moved 
to pray for the man that took the tongue from the bell. I prayed 
God to so disturb him that he could neither eat nor sleep until he 
should return what he had taken. It was said that during this 
prayer I had pointed my finger directly at the supposed culprit 
who was then standing in the side gallery, and that he went down as 
if he had been shot. The next morning the tongue was hanging^ 
on a shade tree in the church yard. 

One day a number of students, including myself, were moved 
to climb one of the most rugged portions of the Green moun^ 
tains. We didn't come in contact with serpents or scorpions, but 
we did have to assist each other up the ledges of rocks which was 
very hazardous, but, after reaching the top, we were amply com- 
pensated by having a beautiful view of the majestic Hudson, the 
Catskill mountains, and the varied attractions of the surrounding 
countrj'. We were led back in another direction, through a dense 
forest, as we came down to the great smelting works, where a 
brother Taft had charge, we were induced to go into the passage,^ 
extending under the mountain, seemingly over a mile, to where 
the iron ore was brought out. We had no occasion, during this 
perilous trip, to use our fire arms only for amusement. On our 
return to Bennington, where we had refreshments, we spent the 



16 LIFE SKETCHES OF 

evening in recounting our perilous adventure up rocks from fifteen 
to twenty feet in height and nearly perpendicular. I also held 
meetings in some of the school houses round about the villages. 
I preached one night, where the people were all very wicked, from 
the text " No hope." Some fifteen persons came forward after 
the sermon, knelt down and cried for merc}^ After prayer, eight 
of them gave good evidence of having found Jesus, one by the 
name of Morse, nearlj^ eighty years old, rose up and said, " Young 
man, I have been blind twenty 3'ears ; I have been a Universalist 
for a much longer period. Until now I had a hope, but you have 
destroyed it. What shall I do to be saved? for I feel that I am a 
lost soul." We all went down in prayer and then he arose rejoic- 
ing in a good hope through Jesus Christ. In less than one year, 
Jesus took him to himself, so that forty-eight years, at least, he is 
in advance of me. Before he died he left a small legacy for me 
to help me through my studies. Another was Mary Morse, eight 
years old, a grand-daughter of the old gentleman. She gave a 
very clear evidence of conversion, after which she pra3'ed three 
times a daj'' v^ith her little sisters until taken sick, when she 
seemed to know she was going to die. She called her little sisters 
to her bedside and said, " I am going where Jesus is, and I want 
you to pray just as I have prayed." Then calling her mother, she 
said, " Ma, I am going where Jesus is. I want you to see that 
sisters pray as I have, three times a da3\" Then she called her 
father, a very profane, wicked man, an infidel. He went in haste 
for he loved his little daughter. She laid her little hand in his, 
looked into his face and said, " Pa, I am going to die and go 
where Jesus is. Pa, I want you to make me one promise before I 
die ; that you won't swear any more. You don't know how you 
have hurt ray feeling^ when you have taken the name of God in 
vain." He made the promise. She raised her little hands 
towards heaven and said, "Pa, do you see those angels coming? 
do you see them Pa? — coming — come — " and passed away. 

This was related to me on my second visit to that place about 
one year from my first visit. At this time I was much discouraged 
by lack of means, and was strongly tempted to turn aside from 
my calling, but when the account of this beautiful and triumph- 
ant death was related to me, I said, " Lord, I will preach the 
Gospel, if I can only lead a child to Christ," and it seemed after- 
wards as though she was my guardian angel. 



ELDER W. G. RAYMOND. 17 

Then I returned to Hamilton and resumed my studies, which I 
have always regretted, for thereb^^ I lost confidence in some of 
the facult}', most especially Prof. Kendrick, the President of the 
College. A little before the close of the previous term John Tall- 
man and myself got permission from Prof. Eaton, our teacher in 
History, to go out and labor to procure means to help us through 
the coming year. As, at that time, Bro. J. Knapp was holding 
meetings in New York City, we felt moved to go there first, not 
dreaming there could be any objection by the Faculty. We 
started with a dollar and a half in our pockets, intending to walk 
to Albany, this being in the spring of the year and the roads very 
muddy and bad. For the first meal we partook, a lady refused 
pa3'^ment, saying she was glad to give students a meal. Where 
we tarried all night and ate breakfast, we had like treatment, our 
hostess saying, it was a pleasure to do that much for young men 
studying for the ministry. The next stopping-place was Coopers- 
town, in Cherry Valle}^ There I first met with my supposed 
cousin. Rev. Louis Raymond, with whom we tarried over Sunday. 
He was pastor of the Baptist church. I shall never forget the 
kindness of that family. In leaving he increased our stock of 
money and gave us directions where to stay over and get our 
meals at " Baptist Taverns." The roads were so bad that Tall- 
man's feet soon gave out, so that we failed to reach the designated 
place of entertainment. The second night we reached a place 
within four or five miles of the one where we would have had free 
entertainment, but on account of Taliman's feet we had to stay 
at a hotel and, after having missed our dinner, went to bed sup- 
perless to save expense. The stage to Albany being delayed, we 
were compelled by the landlord to take a bed which took fifty 
cents out of our limited treasuiy. , 

In the morning we started on our way without breakfast and 
walked until about ten or eleven o'clock, when we stopped at one 
of the " Baptist Taverns." Our hostess prepared a meal of ham 
and eggs for hungry men. You may imagine how we felt after 
fasting over twenty-four hours. Just as we were about to sit 
down to the table, the cry came, " The stage is coming ! " John 
said, " I must give up the meal if I have to fast another twenty- 
four hours, for I can walk no more." I said, " I'll eat, if I have 
to walk to New York." The lady said, " You'll have time for 
they change horses at the next house above." We took, as the 
2 



18 LIFE SKETCHES OF 

saying is, "a square meal," and reached the stage just as it was 
starting. I showed the driver the mone}' we had and he said, 
'* That is onlj^ half your fare." I said, " Friend, this is all we've 
got, and Tallman's feet won't let him walk any farther." He said, 
*' Young men get in and ride to Alban}'." This he said after I 
told him we were students, and that we had walked from Ham- 
ilton. 

Arriving at Albany, we called at Bro. Sheldon's, according to 
Lewis Raymond's directions. Here we were entertained in a 
lordly manner, and the Scriptures fulfilled. "• We were strangers 
and ye took us in; sick, and ye ministered unto us." Bro. S. 
also procured tickets for us to go down on the boat to New York. 
I know the Lord has rewarded him and his wife for their kindness. 
On arriving at New York, I was invited to stay with Bro. John 
Colgate's famil}''. There, I formed the acquaintance of the Rev. 
Mr. Buckbee. Jacob Knapp's meeting was in progress in the Mul- 
berry Street Baptist Tabernacle, Rev. W. W. Everett, pastor, and 
there I commenced labors by taking an active part in prayer ard 
conference meetings and visiting families by cards, at their requests 
In one familj'^ was a young lady with whom several had labored, 
but failed to lead to Christ. She said she was willing to give up 
all worldly pleasures and had been for weeks. At the close of 
my conversation with her, it occurred to me, and I inquired, 
*^ Have you given yourself ni^ to Christ?" She started back and 
said, '' I never thought of that." '' Will you give yourself to 
Christ now?" ''I will," was the response. We knelt down and 
prayed. In five minutes she was a saved woman. Another 
family, I visited by special request, was a certain, wealthy family, 
the parents members of Dr. Perkins' Baptist Church. I made a 
direct eflfort to lead Miss V. to Christ, but fruitless, on account 
of her fashionable relations and practices in life. She offered 
to defra}' all my expenses through college, but seeing that this 
would place me under special obligations to her, a lady of 
the world, I could not accept her generous offer. I shall never 
forget the kindness shown me by a younger sister who was con- 
sidered the belle of the city. She, I believe, was led to Christ. 

Bro. Illsby, the pastor of First Baptist Church, Brooklyn, came 
over to see Bros. Everett and Knapp to secure a student to visit 
his church and congregation and hold meetings. They recom- 
mended W. G. Raymond, and I went, stopping while there with 



ELDER W. Q. RAYMOND. 1^ 

his dear family, visiting during the days and holding meetings- 
evenings in the church. These meetings and visits were attended 
with marked interest and spiritual advancement in that churcb 
and secured a new interest among the young people. There 1 
was constrained everj' evening to sing the ''Old Ship Zion,"' 
which the church had printed to distribute in the congrega- 
tion. As I was leaving, Bro. I. presented me with a nice- 
broadcloth suit of clothes and some other presents, for which I 
thanked God and took courage. 

Once I was called to officiate in Dr. Cone's church, the First 
Baptist Church of New York City. I preached also on board 
vessels in East River, where over a thousand would come and 
listen to my singing "Old Ship Zion," and prayer, and would 
stand on the wharf for one hour and listen attentively to the 
simple teaching of God's word. After which they would come 
into the cabin and man}^ were lead to Christ. To God be all the 
glory. 

Frequently, I was called to address Sunday Schools in the 
different churches. As a part of the fruits of the meetings, twa 
hundred candidates went over in the ferr}^ boat to Jersey City 
shore and were baptized by Bros. Knapp and Everett one after- 
noon. 

One novel incident connected with these meetings of Brcn- 
Knapp was the meeting held for the theatre-going people. 
The proprietor of the Grove theatre wrote a note of invitation' 
to Bro. K. to come and '* perform " one night in his theatre and 
receive the benefit of it, as he believed that he (Knapp) could 
produce a greater sensation than anything he had on hand. 
Knapp replied that he would " perform," but preferred they should 
come to the Tabernacle, as it would hold more than the theatre^ 
The night was fixed and they came en mass, filling the house afc 
an early hour. Bro. K. preached from the text, " Their feet shall^ 
slide in due time" (Deut. 32 : 35). He first pictured the worldi 
as an inclined plane. 

It is impossible to reproduce with the pen the glowing descrip- 
tion of the world which he gave, passing down the broad way to 
destruction. He represented the devil as a ferocious lion crouch- 
ing down watching for his prey, and as he went down behind the- 
desk, crying " no devil," the congregation kept rising up on theiv" 
feet; still going lower, crying "no devil," these theatre-going:. 



:20 LIFE SKETCHES OF 

t-people rose up on to the seats, then (some of them) even on the 
tops of the seats. All at once he sprang up so high that I saw 
vhis feet above his desk. He brought his hands together so that it 
sounded like the bursting of a shell. They fell and fainted all 
.over the house, like Dagon before the ark. He repeated the 
words, " and he sucks the blood and brakes the bones and takes 
tthe life of his victim." Then messengers were going in every 
direction with water and other restoratives, and it was some 
iminutes before the congregation was seated and composed. Then 
he proceeded with the most searching truths to which the congre- 
gation had ever listened and hundreds were under conviction and 
many saved that night. 

A very similar service was, when he preached to the firemen, 
.during which he cried out, " Fire ! Fire! Fire ! ! FIRE ! ! ! each 
time louder and more earnest, moving every one to their feet. 
" I hear you ask, '- Where is it? ' " I answer, '• In the depths of 
hell, where you are rapidly going unless 3^ou repent." Then 
followed a storm of terrific anathmas on the finally impenitent 
which caused the stoutest sinners to tremble like Belshazzar. 

I have met nearly all the Evangelists of note and power with 
God in the United States the past fifty j^ears, Jacob Knapp, in 
my judgment, stands at the head. Jabez Swan, in some respects, 
stands next. Sheardown, perhaps, would rank third. Rev. E. N. 
JKirk had considerable power with a certain class of people. The 
Rev. Mr. Hammond has admirable tact in reaching the masses, 
especially loose characters, and has a national reputation. The 
Rev. Mr. Earl of the Baptist denomination, with whom I have 
labored some, has doubtless been instrumental in saving thou- 
sands. The Rev. Mr. Adams of the M. E. denomination with all 
his eccentricities, has produced I suppose, some favorable results. 
Rev. Mr. Inskip, of the Holiness Association, has led multitudes 
to see and accept the\r fall privilege in Christ, except the healing 
of the body. Geo. Balcom has done a grand work for the Master, 
and Lewis Raymond in his labors for the last sixty years nearly all 
oyer the United States, has done a work, how great in its results, 
the Lord only knows. At this time he is, I think, in his ninetieth 
jear, and was last year wonderfully raised by the power of God 
from his supposed death bed, since which time, he has been more 
wonderfully than ever used of the Lord. He is now in Chicago. 
Of Mr. Moody, Graves, Sam Jones, Small, and several other 



ELDER W. G. RAYMOND. 21 

modern evangelists, I cannot speak from personal knowledge, but 
their favorable record is generally known. 

Just here I desire to mention the names of several worthies in* 
the service of God, pioneers of forty or fifty years ago with whom 
I have more or less associated and the most of whom have long^ 
since passed to their reward. Father Bennett, of Binghamptouy 
stands at the head. Father Peck may be his equal. Dr. Cone 
was their equal, if not superior, in some respects. Dr. Church 
has done a glorious work for the Baptist denomination. The 
Perkinses fill their place, also Rev. Mr. Blaine. Then Revs.^ 
Simon Sutherland, John Chase, Moses Rowley, Crane, Huntley,- 
Cole, of Western New York, and many more. 

In New York City while laboring so successfully, though only a 
young student, ample provision was being made to carry me 
through my course of stud3^ Just then Dr. Kendrick came down 
to the cit}'. Hearing my name frequently mentioned, " Ray- 
mond ! " he said, "What Raymond?*' The reply was, •' Why^ 
W. G. Raymond, a 3'oung man from your college." " Wh}'," he 
replied, "he is but a young student and left the institution 
without permission." I noticed after he came nothing more was 
given me and there were no more words of sympathy and encour- 
agement. It proved to be one of the causes of my leaving, 
college before completing my course, but some of those who went 
through the eight years' course, have fallen under m}'' shadow and 
some have sat like children at my feet, while the Holy Ghost has 
spoken through me. Still I have had to take fields that were not 
so lucrative as they have taken. 

On mj' way back to Hamilton, I made the second visit at Ben- 
nington, Vt., previously referred to. Upon arriving at Hamilton,- 
the professors, I thought, received me rather coolly, especially 
Prof. Kendrick. He said to me, "How was it that you left the 
college without permission? " I replied, " Dr., we got permission 
of Prof. Eaton." He answered, " I doubt it, for I heard nothing 
about it, and I told some of your New York friend that you left 
the college without permission. I'll see about this." 

In a few days John Tallman and I were ordered before the 
faculty. While before them. Prof. K. said, " We admire your 
zeal and believe you to be devoted Christians and we all want ta 
save your reputation. Dr. Eaton sa^'s that while he gave you 
permission to leave, he did not give you leave to go to New York. 



"22 LIFE SKETCHES OF 

City. We keep that city for students advanced in studies. 
Don't you know that you are required to mention the places where 
you are going, when 3'ou leave?" I answered, *' No, I did not 
think of such a thing." " Well," he said, " it is so, and you will 
iiave to make confession that you are sorry you went to New 
York." *' Gentlemen of the faculty," I said, " I never shall do it, 
rand you can expel me at you pleasure. If the Lord has called me 
to preach the Gospel, he will open some way for my education, so 
that I shall not be necessitated to confess to a lie." He said, 
^' My brother, you have too much zeal and j'ou will find when you 
get into the work, you will want more knowledge and less zeal." 
I was then allowed to retire with the understanding, I vrould have 
to make a confession or be suspended. After two or three fruit- 
less efforts to extort this confession I was suspended, but Bro. 
Tallman made the confession and continued his studies after say- 
ing to me several times that he would not do it, if they expelled 
him. The}" then sent Prof. McGinnis to see Jacob Knapp, with 
•whom I was still living, to solicit his influence to lead me to make 
:a confession. He had a conversation with me on the subject. I 
a-elated to him the circumstances and asked if he thought I ought 
^to confess that I was sorry for having gone to New York and 
labored in that meeting. He unhesitatingly said, '* No, I would 
■not. God will open a way for your education." The next pro- 
fessor that came to see me was Taylor, m}^ teacher in mathematics, 
vone that I respected and loved. He said, " Bro. Raj^mond, I do 
not believe that the faculty understand you. You know now 
what the college rules are. Would you leave the college now 
without telling us where you were going? " I readily said, " No, 
J would not, though T regard the requirements as tyranical." 

"You would not, then, have gone thus had you known it?" 
1 said, " Certainly not, for I am a law-abiding man." He said, 
■^' I think this will be satisfactory^ to the faculty ; it is certainly so 
rto me." The next day, I was restored to my class, but Dr. K. 
fnever, to my knowledge, corrected the false statement he made in 
^ew York. I trust the Lord forgave him,^as I have. After this, 
I was so far behind in my classes, that I thought it best to leave 
,Bro. Knapp and go to the boarding house. 

This was a great mistake, for the exercise of going and coming 
"from the hill to the village and the chores I did was just what was 
needful for my health, as I had been brought up on a farm until 



ELDER W. G. RAYMOND. 23 

18 years old. Now the change of diet, confinement to my room, 
hard study and anxiety regarding means for support, together 
with the brooding over the injustice done me by those who ought 
to have been as fathers to me, wore upon me physically, until, 
suffering greatly with dyspepsia, I was compelled to go home. 
Taking a horse, I started out on a tour. I spent several months in 
the vicinity of the Alleghany mountains, and from there to Canada 
and Niagara Falls, preaching to the Scotch Highlanders among 
whom souls were gloriously saved and returned home much 
improved in health, though not rid of dyspepsia. 




Chapter III. 




Ordination, Marriage, Various Pastorates, Births of 

Children, Wife's Death, Second Marriage, 

Mission Work, Losses, Perils. 

COMMENCED ministerial labors in Steuben County^ 
with headquarters at Elder Adsit's, of Prattsburgh. 
That winter, as the result of labors, in connection 
with Elder Moses Rowley, who was preaching at 
Bath, from four to five hundred were hopefully con- 
verted. The work of grace swept all through that 
country. Two hundred we baptised in the church in 
the name of the Father, Son and Holy Ghost. I was then urged 
to give up completing my college course and be at once ordained 
to preach, which I did and received the following certificate : 

" This is to certify that Bro. Wm. G. Raymond was ordained 
to the work of the Gospel Ministry on the 27th of February, 1843, 
by an Eccl. Council, consisting of delegates from several Baptist 
churches convened in Wheeler, Steuben Co., N. Y. 

Samuel Adsit, Jr., Clerk, 
Moses Rov7ley, Moderator." 

I continued my labors through that spring and summer in the 
towns of Wheeler, Avoca, Howard Flats, Tolesville, and Cameron. 
I became acquainted with Miss Martha Smith of Howard Flats, 
who was teaching school in that vicinity, and in her chosen pro- 
fession stood high for her intellectual attainments, as also in the 
church, for her piety. She was a step daughter of Dea. Ferris. 
After a short courtship, the Lord seemed to show us that we 
should be " one flesh " and before the year closed we were married 
by Samuel Adsit, at her stepfather's house. As she had two 
sisters living in Livingston Co., N. Y., we visited them on our 
wedding tour. While visiting there, I accepted a call from the 



ELDER W. G. RAYMOND. 25 

Baptist Church of Sparta, near Mt. Morris, Livingston Co., N. Y. 
During my two years' pastorate there my eldest daughter, 
Mary, was born. One point of great importance to me dur- 
ing these two years was the proficiency I made in study, my 
wife being of great assistance to me. Here at Sparta my wife's 
mother died with a cancer at our house. M}' wife was also bereft 
of two sisters by death that year. 

I next accepted a call to the church in Jasper, Steuben Count}^ 
N. Y., and during the first two months of my ministr}' there, over 
two hundred souls were gloriously saved, and would have joined 
the Baptist church but for trouble between the members which 
existed when I went there. This led the converts to join the 
M. E. and Presbyterian churches, so that I baptized onl}' about 
eleven. Here my eldest son, Edwin L., was born, who is now 
Elder E. L. Raymond, of Mount Jewett, McKean Co., Pa. 

From Jasper I removed my labors to a missionary field farther 
south, in some portions of which I had previously labored, and set- 
tled in Troup's Creek, where my wife died a very triumphant 
death. She was buried in a grave^'ard near Jasper. My wife 
had been to me a helpmeet indeed, and we had been in every 
sense of the word laborers together in the service of the Lord^ 
but the great loss I sustained in her death was her gain. 

One point I touched in my labors was Brookfield, Tiogo Count}', 
Pa., where in one revival, hundreds of souls were saved, a church 
was organized, and one of the finest churches in that part of the 
country erected through my efforts under God. Thanks be to 
his name ! p 

Among those glorious' saved were two of Squire Simmon's 
daughters. Lumanda, I baptized into the Baptist church. 

Another point, was Shenang Settlement, where a glorious re- 
vival accompanied my labors and a health}- church sprang up 
which still continues, worshipping in a commodious meeting 
house. One very marked and sad incident in this place. The 
Lord had renewed in me the gift of discernment. While preach- 
ing a sermon, I saw clearly that some one was hearing his last 
sermon, and was moved to tears. After giving expression to my 
convictions, I said, '^ I wish I knew who it was. I would go to 
him, &nd urge him to give his heart to the Lord at once." I dis- 
missed the congregation and started for an afternoon appointment 
at Troupsburgh Centre. According to my custom, I proposed 
stopping to dine with Bro. Olmstead's family. 



26 LIFE SKETCHES OF 

As I went out to my carriage Wm. O., a j'oung man of this 
family, a school teacher, but not a professor of religion, had my 
horse in readiness. We got in together and rode to his father's. 
After dinner, I went out to go on my way, and again found my 
horse in readiness, Wm. standing b3^ It did not occur to me that 
he was the one shown me, but as I took his hand to bid him good 
bye, he held on to it as if he could not let go, but in my hurry I 
said, " Good-bye," and went on. The next Monday I returned 
to Brookfield where I continued two weeks witnessing the mighty 
power of God in saving souls. Returning home to Troup's Creek, 
on Saturday evening, a letter was handed me from Bro. Olmstead. 
I opened it and read, '' Elder R., Dear Bro., you are requested to 
preach the funeral sermon of Wm. Olmstead at Shenang Settle- 
ment at 11 A. M., Sunday." The letter dropped from my hand 
onto the floor. I said in tears, " I cannot preach his funeral ser- 
mon. I have let a soul slip through my hands. I will go as one 
of the mourners." The 3^oung man was taken deranged from a 
fever. At intervals, he would come to himself and cry out, " Has 
Elder Raymond come yet?" He continued in that state until he 
died. I hope the Lord had mercy on his soul. I did preach the 
funeral sermon amidst tears and sobs of the whole congregation. 
I asked God to forgive me and never let anything like that occur 
with me again. 

Within the course of two years I felt it my duty to marry again, 
and the Lord showed me very clearly I was to marry Lumanda 
Simmons, the young lady I baptized during the great revival in 
Brookfield. She had been engaged in teaching several years, and 
was a highly educated lady for that time. She proved a great 
help to me in my ministry. Her father was a wealthy farmer and 
merchant, but a very strong Universalist, bordering on Infidelity, 
and had fought desperately against his daughter's baptism, and 
still more against her marriage to a poor Baptist minister, " mov- 
ing from place to place and never accumulating anything," as he 
said. So we concluded we would be married unbeknown to him. 
I took my horse and carriage verj- early in the morning before her 
school commenced and went down to her boarding place. She 
being in readiness, we rode to Elder Murdock's, a Baptist minis- 
ter, and he performed the ceremony, pronouncing us maa and 
wife. She returned to her school. 

When the news reached the Squire, he was much enraged and 
«o the whole familj^ were quite excited. Only a few days later we 



ELDER W. G. RAYMOND. 27 

"were invited h^ my father-in-law to come home and he became 
apparently attached to me, and up to the time of his death I could 
not see that he thought any less of me than his other children, 
but when he made his will he only left to my three children (his 
-grand-children) one hundred dollars each. 

After our wedding tour to Niagara Falls and Rochester by car- 
riage, I was called to the First Pultney Baptist Church near 
Crooked Lake. There I purchased thirt}^ acres of land and 
preached two years. 

One feature of my residence there was the worldl}^ element 
which I admitted into my experience, thereby weakening my spirit- 
ual power, for I traded in cattle and horses to raise money to 
finish paying for my place. 

Here daughter Ellie, who is now Mrs. Porter in Burlingame, 
l^ansas, was born. In two years I sold out and moved to Little 
Valle}^ Cataraugus Co., N. Y., a mission field, without any pros- 
pect of a salary. There I purchased a beautiful place of nineteen 
acres and labored four years, not to make money, but for the 
Lord. As the fruit of the first revival there, over two hundred 
souls were clearly converted and the gracious work continued 
throughout the j^ear. 

The next revival was among the Indians on the AUeghan}- Res- 
ervation, where we baptized in the river over two hundred Indians 
who had been gloriously saved. My labors were in connection 
with Bro. Smith, an Indian, a man of great spiritual power. I 
also, that year, organized an Indian Church on the Cataraugus 
Reservation. I also labored at Nopoli, same Co., and Bradford, 
Pa., the present centre of the great oil country, where many were 
led to Jesus. 

At Little Valley daughter Mary was born, who married George 
Smith, of Auburn, Kansas. She died about two years later, and 
was buried with her infant babe. 

At the end of four years, I traded my place at Little Valley for 
a timber lot of several hundred acres and a saw mill, just above 
the present city of Bradford. I was advised by medical men to 
go there and labor among the pine timber for the benefit of my 
health, as I was then suflfering from liver complaint. I preached 
occasion all}^ at Bradford and other places during my two 3^ears' 
sojourn there. Here daughter Rosie (now Mrs. Roberts of Au- 
burn, Kansas) was born. Having here regained my health, and 



28 LIFE SKETCHES OF 

being true to a promise made to the Lord, I was moved to resume 
ministerial labors, so I shifted m}^ mill property for a house and 
lot in the village which is now in the centre of the city of Brad- 
ford. This property, Ex-Sheriff Hicks informed me several years 
ago, was worth $80,000. Yet, I believe it was a great mistake 
making this shift, for it was not long before the oil was devel- 
oped, and there was on the mill property over a million feet of 
choice pine timber, and as much more other timber and several 
hundred acres of land lying near Bradford and a good saw mill. 
This land is now covered with oil wells. I am informed that a 
lot of 50 acres from this land sold for $60,000, just for the oil. 
The mill lot of several acres is now covered with large iron oil 
tanks. I might have retained this propert}" and still followed my 
convictions of duty regarding the ministry. 

A clear title of the village property was conveyed to Lumanda 
Raymond, my wife, from Kingsbury who owned an immense tract 
of land. At the commencement of the war there was some 
trouble arising from a judgment of $40.00 that Walker, the former 
owner, agreed to pay, and this judgment reached the lot and a 
sale was forced, but they failed to record it, so the sale was ille- 
gal and stands in that waj' to-day. A f^w years ago, I put it into 
the hands of lawj^ers, but for want of means was compelled to 
stop them from going on with the case. When this forced sale 
occurred, we were in Brookfield, Pa., at the bedside of my wife's 
dying mother, and had no knowledge of it until Webster, who was 
renting the property, informed us he could pa}' no more rent to us. 
This statement, however, as I afterwards learned, was false, and 
the place has been sold and resold without any valid title. GocVs- 
judgments have already fallen upon one of the perjurers and the 
final judgment will reveal all, and just penalties then to be meted 
out, but now my family are the sufferers. 

Paul speaks of having been " in perils of waters, in perils of 
robbers, in perils b}^ mine own country-men, in perils by the 
heathen ... in perils in the wilderness ... in perils among 
false brethren." All these perils I have experienced. Four times 
at Bradford, I ver^^ narrowly escaped drowning. " In perils of 
robbers," I have testified to having been, " in perils by mine own 
countrymen," for those who professed to be mj^ friends betrayed 
me ; " in perils among the heathen " was true of me among the 
Seneca Indians. My " perils in the wilderness " can never be 



ELDER W. G. RAYMOND. 29 

forgotten. A few da3's after the birth of daughter Rosie, now 
Mrs. Rosie Roberts, and the wife of a Methodist minister, I went 
«p on the hill to hunt, the snow being nearly a foot deep. After 
pursuing the deer nearly all day, surrounded by bears and wolves 
and wildcats in a forest twenty miles deep, at nightfall, I found 
myself entirely lost, being unable to see my back tracks. I came 
to a precipice down which I slid perhaps twenty feet ; then a sec- 
ond slide still farther. Now brushing the snow from myself, 
standing alone with God, exhausted by the day's tramp, I said, 
" What a fool a man can make of himself." I vowed if the Lord 
would bring me out of this difficulty I would give up hunting, for 
which I had a great passion. That vow I have kept. I then felt 
my way with my hand along a small stream for hours, still seeing 
no signs of home. I then 6red off my rifle, and was so cold I 
■could not reload it. Naught but an echo came back as a response. 
I then used my voice until that failed ; still nothing but a mock- 
ing echo. I felt that I must rest and sleep a moment, but some- 
thing said, " If you do you'll never wake," and the vision of my 
dear wife and children came before me, urging me onward until in 
the distance I saw a light to cheer me for a minute then it disap- 
peared. It seemed then only a phantom to deceive, but still on- 
ward I pressed slowly and painfull}^, until I plainly saw an open- 
ing which I finally reached. Then I found myself half a mile 
from any house, the wind blowing severely. The question came 
*' Can I possibh' reach it? But I must.*' It seemed an hour after, 
that I reached the barn and stepped behind it to get relief from 
the wind and frost. It seemed impossible for me now to reach 
the house only a few rods away. I could just move my feet a few 
inches at a time, but the Lord helped me and the house was 
reached, where was a big log fire, and the family just sitting down 
to a late night supper, as they had company. I was cautioned 
not to go too near the fire. In the course of an hour, I was in 
condition to take supper with the family. I then had five or six 
miles to go to reach mj' house, which was accomplished without 
serious trouble though it was very cold. I found my dear wife in 
almost utter dispair, but thank God ! our sorrow was turned into 
joy. Two different times when relating this incident to my chil- 
dren, when I reached a certain point, they cried out, " Oh, papa, 
did you get out?" Then seeing their mistake they laughed 
heartily. 



30 LIFE SKETCHES OF 

" In peril by false brethren " was true of me, for of those who^ 
were implicated in m}^ robbery were professed brethren, but I have 
forgiven them and had the privilege since of treating them a& 
kindly as though they had been true, and I hope their sins will not- 
shut them out of heaven. I cannot say I was free from faults- 
during this time, but believe I committed sins before God and 
have craved and received forgiveness. 

In leaving Bradford and arriving at Brookfield, we found' 
mother Simmons in apparently a dying condition, but she lin- 
gered nearly a year, when she died in the triumphs of faith. 
While thus detained there, I received a call to the church in Har- 
rison Valley, just above Westfield, Tioga Co., Pa., and also to 
the church in Brookfield, same Co., both of which calls I accepted 
and labored in that vicinity until the war broke out. The most 
marked thing of interest at Harrison Valley was the erection of 
a very commodious and beautiful church, free of debt. We had 
previously built one like it at Brookfield ; while at Cameron, at 
the close of a protracted effort there, we obtained the subscriptions 
for a still more expensive and attractive one, which was built^ 
being completed just before the war broke out. 

In September, 1860, I was appointed to preach the introductory 
sermon of the Canisteo River Association of 1861 held in the last 
named church, but was detained bj' duty as 1st Lieut, of the 86tb 
N. Y. Reg. Co. H, at Elmira. I was, however, permitted to at- 
tend the last day of the association, as the minutes of 1860 and 
1861 will show. 

Previous to enlisting, I had moved from Harrison Valley to 
Shenang Settlement, and purchased a farm of sixty or seventy 
acres, where I was then preaching. There I procured subscrip- 
tions for the erection of a fourth church, a fac simile of the 
others. The erection of this church was, however, defeated by 
several families who could not agree on the site. This came very 
near bringing me down by a fit of sickness, the anxiety and 
disappointment were so great. Thank God ! there is now a 
church erected there. 

Remember, these were mission-fields, hence my moving about. 
I might have had more lucrative positions and longer pastorates 
with more opportunity for mental culture. I chose such fields be- 
cause other competent ministers were unwilling to take them on 
account of the small income. I was thus led out under the exam- 



ELDER W. G. RAYMOND. 31 

pie as well as the commission of Christ, and believe that hundreds 
of poor sinners saved in that mission section will through eter- 
nity thank God for salvation through Christ, presented to them 
through my ministry. Many faint and care worn saints were also 
comforted and built up in the faith by my religious visits from 
house to house — many that are now resting from their labors 
and rejoicing with the redeemed. 

In Harrison Valley my son Willie G. was born, but died in 
infancy. 






Chapter IV. 




and 
Jer. 



cursed 
48:10. 



1861, Off to the War, Birth and Death of Willie, the 2d., 

Various Incidents in the Service as First Lieut., 

Provost Guard, and Liquor Spilling. 



/HIS brings our record to 1861, when the war broke 
out. I helped recruit several companies, but did 
not, at first, think it possible to leave the ministry 
to go myself. I thought, too, that I was too cor- 
pulent, weighing at that time two hundred and 
nine pounds. One Sunday, I preached in the 
Brookfield meeting-house from this text, " Cursed 
be he that doeth the work of the Lord deceitfully, 
be he that keepeth back his sword from blood." 
I was led to say some very plain things that gave 
great offence to that portion of the congregation in sympathy with 
the South. 

Mr. Wood, a wealthy man who had given liberally towards the 
erection and support of the church said he would not give another 
dollar and added, " Elder Raymond is a good hand to say, ' Go 
boys,' but you never hear him sa}', ' Come boys.' He is too 
much of a coward to go himself." Hearing this, I returned home 
and said to my wife, " I am going to the war." She laughingly 
said, " I think I see you going." The next morning early, I took 
my Black Hawk Morgan horse and sulky and started for Elmira 
to see Gen. Van Volkenburgh, who commanded a military post 
there. He gave me authority with directions to raise a company. 
The next day returning home, I commenced recruiting and within 
one week my company was mustered into service at Elmira. The 
command was given to Capt. Tenbrook, the 1st Lieutenancy to 
W. G. Raymond, and the 2d Lieutenancy to James Carpenter. 
This was Co. H, of the 86th Regiment. I sold my farm and 
moved my family to Painted Post, where they might be cared for 



ELDER W. G. RAYMOND. 33 

while I should be in the army. A few months after, our second 
son was born, whom we also named Willie after the one that had 
died. Subsequent to this, I had my family move to Washington. 
My son Willie died at the age of three years. He had become an 
idol in my heart, for I loved him as my life, but the Lord took him 
out of m}^ arms and transplanted him in a fairer clime. He is 
buried in the Congressional grounds at Washington, and a beauti- 
ful monument marks his resting place. 

Oct. 7, 1861, I was commissioned by Gov. Morgan, and was 
ordered in a few weeks to the front. We first camped in Wash- 
ington, D. C. ; then were ordered to Maryland Heights and as- 
sisted in building a fort, then ordered again to the front in Virginia. 
We passed through Washington and over the chain bridge near Falls 
Church. We were under Gen. Smith's command. I was sent out 
every few days with a command on the advance line, mfcere we would 
tarry all night, without shelter, exposed to the sleet and snow and 
rain, until my health gave way and I was ill for several weeks. 
We were then ordered into Maryland again and camped in a piece 
of woods. While there, I took a few of my compan3' and went 
out to hunt and see the country. We came to a little old house 
surrounded by woods, save two or three acres near the house, which 
was under cultivation with some fruit trees. We stopped and I 
rapped at the door. No one repl3ing, I rapped again. After 
some time an old colored woman came to the door. I said, 
*' Auntie, you look as though you were sick." She said, " Oh, 
yes honey, I'se werrj^ poorly." " How old are you auntie?" I 
spect I'se hundred and seven." . She then invited us in. I said, 
" You've seen a good deal of the world." " Laws, me ! gess I 
has, I'se seen Gen. Washington com in. I'se seen lots big folks." 

" Whose slave were you? " " Massa ." " You've done a 

good deal of work?" "Yes, honey, deeds I has. I'se been a 
field hand. I'se swung the cradle and mowed a pile o' grass an 
planted an hoed many hill o' corn." " How much of a family did 
you raise?" She heaved a long sigh, as she answered, " I'se born 
ten boys and three gals. My boys big, stout like you'se am." 
" Who was their father?" "Massa was fader to three of um 
and I dun no member the other faders." " Where are your 
boys?" " Dun know, spose down South some whar. When da}^ 
talk bout war, Massa got skeered and sole um South fur $2,000 
piece. He was mighty tickled cause he gut money fore um fore 
3 



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34 LIFE SKETCHES OF 

Yankees com. Three my babies born right in field while Tse at 
work." " Auntie, you don't say your master sold his own sons?'* 
" Lors ! yes, that's nuthin." " Well, auntie, do you think it was 
right?" "No, hone}^, but you see we'se can't help it." She 
seemed to be a Christian woman. We prayed with her, and after 
that kept her in wood and food until her death. When she died, 
I sent word to her old master, to see if he would bury her. He 
returned word, " No, I'll have nothing to do with her." So we 
placed her in a rough coffin which we made and buried her. She 
will be a witness against that master at the judgment. 

Another incident of a little different character : 

As we were leaving Maryland, the regiment halted on the East 
River bridge and one of the boys came running up saying, " They 
have captured Clem," (meaning my colored servant boy) : I 
placed Lieu# Carpenter in command of the company and hast- 
ened back. Entering a blacksmith's shop where he was detained, 
I found him crying. " Clem," I asked, " who detained you? " He 
hesitated from fear. " Clem, point out the man who detained you." 
He pointed to the blacksmith. I asked, "By what authority 
have you detained my servant? His name is on the pay roll. "^ 
He answered, " I didn't know he was your servant. I was told 
he was Berry's slave." " Oh," said I " you were after your 
twenty-five dollars," that being the fee for capturing runaway 
slaves from Maryland. I said " Now, you'll go with me.'*^ 
" You'll let me put on my coat? " " Yes, and I'll let you feel a 
little of what Clem has gone through." It occurred to me just 
as we were leaving the shop that we had a long march before us 
and it was terrible muddy and I could not well stop to attend to 
the case, so I said, " I'll let you go this time if you will promise 
never to do the like thing again and pay Clem $5.00." He said, 
" I haven't five dollars." " All right," I said, " Come on." But 
a friend whispered to him, " I'll let 3'ou have it, for it will cost 
you a hundred and perhaps imprisonment." So he paid the $5.00 
and we returned to the regiment while they were 3'et halting on 
the bridge. As we came in a general shout went up all through 
the regiment. " Three cheers for Clem ! Now, Clem, give us one 
of your songs and " pat juber," and he commenced b}^ singing : — 

" Old turkey buzzard 
What makes you sail so high? 
You can't get your living 
By sailing in the sky," etc. 



ELDER W. G. RAYMOND. 35 

accompanied by the "patting juber " which brought a volley of 
cheers all through the ranks. This boy became very much at- 
tached to me and of great worth, especially when I was sick, for 
he watched me night and day and by his untiring attention, very 
likel}^, saved my life. After this when he was sick nigh unto 
death, I took him into my tent thereby, saving his life, for they 
would not admit him into the hospital. Through doing this, my 
orderl}" and sergeant left my tent. 

We expected to be called into McClellan's army, but instead of 
that were ordered on duty in Washington, D. C, Capt. Sher- 
wood's Co. had the guard house. Our quarters were near the 
Capitol, surrounded by senators and members of Congress. 

Very soon an order came from Headquarters, giving me the 
command of the Provost Guard, which called me with my men 
into different parts of the city day and night. I carried out the 
general orders of the War Department and the special orders of the 
Provost Marshal. I broke up two of the largest gambling estab- 
lishments in the city. Shepherd's on Penn. Avenue, was the first, 
confiscating his gambling implements which I think were never 
returned. The second was Hall's of New York, located between 
Willard's Hotel and Grove's Theatre. I took thirteen or fourteen 
hundred dollars stake money, locked up all their liquors and 

silverware and put Capt. of the Navy under arrest and 

ordered him to report at the Guard House next morning. I was 
informed he had to go to the War Department to get release. 
The next morning early, I went to see General Wads worth, then 
in command of Washington, and reported to him in person. As he 
entered the room, I saluted him and said, " General, I do not know 
but I made a mistake last night, and if so I would like to correct 
it at the earliest moment." Straightening up, he looked sternly 
at me and said, "What have you done. Sir?" I answered, "I 
have broken up Hall's gambling establishment, caught the men in 
the very act, and took fourteen hundred dollars stake money, 
which I have in mj' pocket. I have locked up all the liquors. I 
have put away under lock all the silver ware. I arrested a part- 
ner of Hall's and several witnesses. I have put Capt. of 

the Nav3' under parole to report to the Guard House this morning^ 
and am now holding the house with my men." He raised up his 
right hand and bringing it down again said, " You've done right. 
Hold them! Hold them! until further orders." For about tea 



36 LIFE SKETCHES OF 

'days I held the house, when by order the keys were delivered up. 
I might have received a considerable sum as a bribe if I would 
have removed my men that night without exposing the house. 
My first offer was $20,000. Then I was asked if $40,000 would 
settle it. I answered, " No! money can't buy me. The Govern- 
ment pays me a liberal salary." When I returned the keys to 
iHalFs partner, he took me by the hand, and with tears in his eyes 
said, " Col. Raymond, do you know I think more of you, than if 
-you had complied with my wishes? " I replied, " I cannot say as 
^to that, but I know I think more of myself, than if I had accepted 
bribes." 

I closed up, under a general order, the bar of the Willard 
Hotel, and Hammack's restaurant, where the government officials, 
and many of the city nabobs obtained their liquors ; also the bar 
of a German hotel, farther down Pennsylvania Ave. Those hav- 
ing charge of these had to go to the Guard House, with confession 
and promise that they would obey the general order, which was to 
close the bar at half-past nine. The Judge Advocate, Capt. 
Todd, also required them to confess their abuse to me, which they 
did, before they could regain their keys. 

In my general work in the city, we emptied hundreds of bar- 
rels of liquor into the gutters, and each liquor seller was fined 
$45 which they had to pay to Walters, Civil Justice at Guard 
House. I have reference to those dealers who sold liquor to, and 
defrauded soldiers, not only taking their money but clothing for 
liquor. One man, on 7th St. was fined twice in one week. The 
second time, before it was demanded, he handed the $45 to me 
saying, " I know I will have it to pay. This is a pretty heavy tax, 
but all comes out of the soldier boys, for I put it right on the 
price of liquor." I said, " You are doing a pretty thriving busi- 
ness here ; aren't you?" " Yes." " Well, I'll put an extra assess- 
ment on you to-day." " Isn't $90 a week enough?" NO ! I'll 
roll all your liquor into the street, break in every barrel, and empty 
them into the gutter, and then if you do not stop defrauding sold- 
iers I'll close up your house during the war." I did empty out 
the liquor under a desperate protest of his wife, who grasped the 
first barrel my boys began to roll, with both hands and feet, as 
she said with an oath, " Faith, an you'll have to roll it over m}^ 
body." It took two strong soldiers to disconnect her from that 
barrel. I had no more trouble there after that. I might relate 
hundreds very similar incidents. 



ELDER W. G. RAYMOND. 37 

I have been requested by Judge Walters and some of my soldier 
friends to give a few little added life sketches of some of the freaks 
of human nature that occurred under m}' command, in the conceal- 
ment of liquor, and to show how people will lie, to carry on their 
nefarious business. It had been reported to me, that an Irish 
family on Capitol Hill, not far from the Capitol, was selling liquor 
to the soldiers without license. I called one day and asked, 
" Madame, have you any liquor here ? " She replied, " no." " Are 
you sure, that you haven't any liquor on your premises ?" " Na, not 
a wa bat," and looking most innocently in my face said, " Plase your 
honor, do 3^ou think I would do sich a thing? " I said, " Are you 
lying to me?" When she most solemnh^ affirmed, "Ihape to da 
this manit." I commenced searching, but found none ; as I was 
about to leave the house, I saw a very large cradle, made out of 
rough lumber, a pillow at the head, and a baby's blanket covered 
it ; as I went to lift the cover, she caught my arm saying, " Please 
don't weak me sick baby." I said " If you've got a sick child, I'm 
considerable of a doctor mj-self." As I laid the cover back, I dis- 
covered a demijohn full of liquor ; I said, " O, boys, come this way, 
here's a sick child, take it out and put it on the sidewalk where it 
can get fresh air." As they repeated my words, it caused a great 
laugh, which brought hundreds of people to the spot. I said,. 
" Madame, what do you sa}- to this ? " Looking square in mj- face,, 
she replied, " An its only for me ole monto hav a swig when he 
comes home tired." I said, " now have you any more liquor?" 
(God pardon me for causing the woman to lie) . She said, " I hope 
to drop into purgatory thas manit ef I have a drap." As I opened 
the foot of the cradle, there lay another demijohn. I cried, " O, 
boys, another sick child, a pair of twins !" They took it out, 
repeating my words, which created a roar of laughter, with the 
crowd increasing. " Is that all?" I said ; " yes, that's all, ye dan't 
thank ad lie about it do ye ? " I then took off the second covering, 
and there lay two demijohns and a lot of small bottles. " 0, boys,, 
this way, there is a litter of sick babies ! take them all out." 
The}' did so, again repeating my words to over five hundred 
people. The bottles were quickly broken and the liquors running 
down the gutters. 

Another lady on 1st street, east of the Capitol, had several 
barrels of liquor, and dared me to roll it out ; it was quickly rolled 
out. She said, " You will let the men destroy my liquor, but 



38 LIFE SKETCHES OF 

you dasn't break them in." I took the axe, and the first blow the 
head did not go in ; the second blow it yielded suddenl}", causing 
the liquor to splash well over me, when she set up a hearty laugh 
at my expense. 

At another place I found the liquor all in the lady's wardrobe, 
a demijohn hanging under each dress, to the amount of eight or 
ten. We did things with a dispatch ; the liquors were quickly 
destroyed. 

I now relate an extreme case of depravity, which occurred near 
the Iron Clad House, south of Pennsylvania Avenue, and was but 
one of many hundred similar cases. The house was kept by an 
old man, w^ho rented out rooms to any persons who might wish 
them during the night, and was paid extra for food and liquors. 
He had a percentage of the money of everj^ soldier that was 
robbed in his house. He had a large room in the basement of 
his house filled with liquors, high wines, etc., stowed away in 
puncheons all around the room, beside demijohns, bottles, etc., 
too numerous to particularize, he having been a wholesale dealer. 
He had claimed for months that the liquors belonged to the 
commissary, and for a time I partly believed it. One night 
between one and two o'clock, with about thirteen of my soldier 
boys, I enquired of the old man if there were any soldiers in his 
house, when he promptly answered " no, not tonight." I said, " I 
don't know whether j^ou are lying or not ; I must see for m3^self." 
As I started to go up, he said to a woman in the room, " Ain't 
there a soldier up in the bed ? '' " Yes," was her reply. " Oh, I like 
to forgot about that," he added. My orderly sergeant and I went 
at once up to his room and woke the man, and said, " Do you know 
where 3'ou are? " He said, " I suppose in a hotel." I replied, " you 
had better look after j^our money, for you are among thieves and 
robbers." He felt for his money, and said, " The devil, its gone." 
I asked, " How much did you have? " " Over a hundred dollars." 
He continued to curse and swear desperately until I commanded 
him to stop. " Its good enough for you, you'll stay in your quarters 
now, till next pay day." He said, "You don't know who is going to 
suflfer by this loss." " Who is the sufferer? " I inquired. " My poor 
sick wife and children," he replied. " I started to go to Adams' 
■express to send it to her j^esterday, but I met two men in soldier's 
clothes, who said they were glad to see me, and treated me two or 
three times. I enquired for Adams' express saying, 'I wanted to 



ELDER W. G. RAYMOND. 39 

send some mone}" home.' They replied, ' it's too late now, j^ou'U 
have to wait until morning. We will take you to a house where 
you will be protected from the provost guard,' and they led me to 
this house." I brought him down into the sitting room, com- 
manding him to keep still unless I asked him a question. I then 
called for the young lad}^ and demanded the money that she had 
stolen. She denied it, and began to cry, saying, " Has it come to 
this, that I am charged with stealing and lying ? " I said " Yes, this 
is only the beginning of a most desperate life." She said, " Perhaps 
the old man can tell you something about it." I passed into his 
room, and demanded the monej' that had been stolen. He said, " I 

know nothing about the money, perhaps its that dom ," calling 

her a vulgar name. I passed into the other room and repeated 
to the woman what he had said to me. She said, " Yes and the 
very liquor that made this man drunk, came out of what he calls 
the government liquors ; he's been lying to you all the time, the 
liquor belongs to him. I'll show him that he shan't slander 
me, he's a thief and a hypocrite ; I won't have my character 
injured in this house." As I entered the old man's room, I en- 
quired after the government liquors ; he said "they are all right." 
1 ordered him to get his key and lantern, as I must look after the 
government property. He said, " Oh, dear, I'm sorry, the officer 
called for the key to-day." I said, " You open that door within five 
minutes or I'll break it in." " Pardon me," he said. " I believe I 
have a key that will fit that lock." " Yes, I know you have, and you 
have known it all the time ;" The door was quickly opened. I said, 
" Do you know what I'm going to do with these liquors;" he 
answered "No." "I am going to take all these demijohns and 
smaller bottles and break them on your pavement here, then turn 
the faucets of all the puncheons, and let the liquors run out and 
waste." " Oh, please don't, that will ruin me. I shall have to pay 
the government for it." I said, " Oh, no, I will give you a receipt 
that I spilled them ; if it is necessary." " They won't accept of it." 
I then ordered him up into his room, and for the boys to bring out 
and spill all the liquors, which they did, filling the air with their 
odor. I then gave the lantern to one of the boys while I turned 
the faucets to all of the puncheons in the room. Then I locked 
the door, and put the key in my pocket, passing up into the sitting 
room. I demanded the mone^' of thfi woman referred to. She 
solemenlj' affirmed, that she had no knowledge of it whatever, 



40 LIFE SKETCHES OF 

hoping that she might die that minute and drop into hell if she 
had any knowledge whatever of the money ; this she did with 
tears and sobs, as if her heart would break to pieces, which 
brought tears to the eyes of some of the soldier boys. I then 
ordered the orderly to search her person for the money. As he 
commenced the search, she threw the pocketbook clear across 
the room saying, "Take it, and go to hell with it." As it was 
brought back to me, I said to the soldier, " Is this your pocket- 
book?" He said " yes." I found one-third of the money that he 
had previously described, and there was one five dollar bill over. 
" Whose money is this ? " She replied that it was her's. The soldier 
said "Yes," I handed her the five dollars, gave the pocketbook 
to the soldier, and put the money in my pocket. We passed into 
the old man's room, I demanded the balance of the money. He 
was lying in his bed, groaning as if he would die before morning, 
and saying that he was very sick. I searched his clothes and 
ordered him up. While he was dressing I searched his bed, but 
found no money. I stepped to the table to remove a pile of New 
York papers that lay on the table, he took my arm and said, 
" Please don't disturb these papers, as they are of great value to 
me." I turned and said, " Sit down sir, you old sinner, don't you 
interfere again to-night." I took oflf one paper and shook it, a 
bill just exactly like those in the pocketbook dropped out. I kept 
on shaking till the other third dropped on the floor. This money 
agreed with the previous description. I then knew that the re- 
maining third had passed out with a man who left as we entered 
the house. I then served a notice on them to get ready to go to 
the guard house, and for him to take suflScient money, to pay his 
bill, which would be forty-five dollars for selling liquor to soldiers 
without license, and that he would have to make up the other third 
of the money, stolen in his house. I then locked up the house, 
putting the keys in my pocket, and accompanying the inmates to 
the guard house, where they were locked up till morning, when he 
was brought before Squire Walters and fined forty-five dollars, 
which he readily paid. I then brought him before Capt. Todd, 
the Judge Advocate, and was ordered by him to pay the balance 
of the money stolen, which he promptly did, and was severely 
reprimanded, and notified that if he again violated the law, his 
house would be locked up" during the war, he was then given 
permission to go, taking his keys with him. I then detailed two 



ELDER W. G. RAYaiOND. 41 

soldiers to accompany the robbed soldier to Adams' express 
office, and see that the money was properly expressed to his wife, 
and they reported that it was so done. As the soldier left me he 
kissed my hand several times, throwing his arms around me and 
thanking me for my perseverance and kindness to him, saying 
that he would teach his wife and children to love and respect me, 
and that he would never again be caught in such compan}-. I felt 
conscious that I had done a favor to the family, though the trans- 
gressor suffered severely, and found the Scripture true, " but the 
way of the transgressor is hard." (Prov. xiii : loth.) I might 
fill a large book with equally amusing and interesting incidents 
which occurred during my command at Washington, and which 
would be eagerly read by every soldier. 

" What shall be done unto [them] whom the [nation] delight- 
eth to honor." (Esther vi : 6th.) 

I was highly honored a seat with the reviewers in front of the 
White House at the closing up of the war, when the victorious 
Grant and Sherman were marching in their last grand review be- 
fore the President of the United States, with worn and riddled 
flags. And as I looked upon this scene, that could but impress^ 
those remaining boys in blue,-that had left homes, in manhood's 
strength and vigor,-now returning, after weary marches r- per- 
chance, with sore, and bare feety-while others, had marched their 
last march — what a panorama presented itself to the mind's eye.' 
What crushed longings, and buried hopes- — what homes, that 
waited no coming greeting — but memories, like sorrowing mourn- 
ers, Were then, vainly seeking the last resting-places of those, who 
had borne away with them, so many of life's joys, and dreams. 
Surely, what tongue can tell, the miseries, of war? None — none. 

I also, was in Washington when our lamented Lincoln was shot, 
April 14th, 1865, in Ford's Theatre by Wilkes Booth. Abraham 
Lincoln — the loved, and large-hearted Lincoln, had fallen — by the 
hand of an assassin. The night before, we marched the streets 
to a late hour, rejoicing over the victor}^, while the city was con- 
verted into day, by its brilliant lights. Then came on lamenta- 
tion, mourning and drapery all over the city and country at large. 
The sorrow of the South was nearly equal to that of the North, 
after they saw what was done, as the}^ felt they had lost a friend. 

I was also afflicted, with the people of Washington, when 
Garfield was shot, Sept. 19th, 1881, in the Pennsylvania depot by 



42 LIFE SKETCHES OF 

Giteau. I was led to see how he could have been raised ; but I was 
more clearl}' shown that he would die, and told the people so. I saw 
each president while l3ing in state at the Capitol, and witnessed 
the great concourse of people as they marched through to take 
their last look of the departed presidents. I arrested Allen and 
Wise, the two last kidnappers of whom I have an}^ knowledge, 
and they were lodged in the Old Capitol Prison, in consequence of 
which, my life was jeopardized. After Allen's release, we met on 
7th Street, when he stopped, and looking me in the face, said, 
*' Damn you !" returning the look, I said, " Yes, Allen, its a good 
time to settle it now." He seeing the pistol on mj^ finger, 
passed on. 

We had very hazardous work with the houses of ill fame scat- 
tered all over the city, nearl}^ all of them keeping liquor for sale. 
At one time, it seemed as though the South had sent in all their 
diseased loose women, to spread contagion through the army. 
At that time diseased soldiers multiplying by thousands. So I 
was informed by one of the surgeons who said if this work was 
not arrested it would destroy the army of the Potomac. Some 
nights I arrested as many as thirty of these characters, soldiers 
being arrested with them. Scores of times, I was threatetied to 
be shot down at once b}- them, and only God preserved me alive 
and held them from their purpose. Members of Congress told 
me if I would frame a law, such as I considered needful to reach 
such houses, they would see that it was passed at once. Before I 
could get time to do this, I received the following Commis- 
sion : — 

Adjutant General's Office, 

Washington, July 30, 1862. 
Sir : — I forward herewith 3^our commission of Chaplain, your 
receipt and acceptance of which you will please acknowledge 
without dela}^, reporting at the same time j'our age and residence 
when appointed, the State where born, and your full name, cor- 
rectl}^ written. Fill up, subscribe, and return as soon as possible, 
the accompanying oath, duly and carefully executed. 

Please report to what religious denomination you belong. 
Address the Adjutant General, U. S. A. 

I am sir, ver3^ respectfully, your obedient servant, 

Julius P. Garesche, 

Asst. Adjutant General. 
Rev. William G. Raymond, Chaplain, U. S. A. 




Chaplain W. G. RAYMOND, July, 1862. 



ELDER W. G. RAYMOND. 43 



Surgeon General's Office, 

Washington City, August 5, 1862. 

Sir: — The President of the United States having appointed 
3'ou a Chaplain for the Hospitals at Washington, 3^ou are hereb}" 
assigned to duty at the thirteenth Street and Trinity Church 
Hospitals, and will report accordingly. 

Veiy respectfull}', youy obedient servant, 

Joseph R. Smith, 

Act. Surgeon General. 

Rev. Wm. G. Raymond, Chaplain^ XJ. S. A. 



Headquarters, War Department, 
Special Orders, No. 169. 

Adjutant General's Office, Washington, April 13, 1863. 

"Extract." 

* * * The following named officer is HONORABLY 
DISCHARGED from the military service of the United States, 
being a Supernumerary Officer, 

Hospital Chaplain .1 Wm. G. Raymond. 

B3' command of Secretary of War, 

[Signed] E. D. Tov^nsend, 

Assistant Adjutant General. 



I certify that the above is a true copy, and that I have 
this day paid the above-named discharged officer $51.12 less 
income tax, in full from April 1, 1863 to April 12, 1863, 
inclusive. 

Wm. B. Rochester, 

Paymaster^ U. S. Army. 
Washington, April 22, 1863. 



44 LIFE SKETCHES OF 



qJ)0 ciii tunc iaaU 4ee lliedc i -^eievilj, ij'icctina : 



/t/eaat(4e o/ l/ie 2M&>cc/en^ o/ me ^cuu^ec^ G/ia/cd /oP Cnc IcrnG mcna. 

/J0 C^:^^*:^^^^^/^*^^^^^^^ 0/ y^^^^^- ^ me ^eaP o^ oaf 

,^oic^ one {nouJan</ cigm nunc/iec/ ana jczln^^zcc^ fp^zd in me etan^'^ ' 
neaP 0/ l/ie Of^ic/e/ienc/cnce 0/ me ^cCnilcJ Q/^a^eJ, 

^u 1^0 2^ACt^(:</enL- ^^4^Urti-n.£tyl^ ^UAUurt^ 

Secretary of Wcm: " 

Washington, D. C, Nov. 3, 1862. 

Capt. W. G. Ra3'mond, Chaplain U. S. A., was assigned to 
Trinity Hospital about the 1st of August last. During the time I 
remained in charge he performed those duties pertaining to the 
christian office promptly and faithfully. I esteem him as a gentle- 
man and friend possessing in a high degree the traits and instincts 
of the christian ; and as having a rigidly conscientious regard for 
the faithful performance of his duties. 

Geo. Wm. Hatch, 

Act. Asst. Surgeon, U. S. A. 



ELDER W. G. RAYMOND. 45 

As Chaplain, I had charge of two hospitals, the Trinity Church, 
and the 13th St. Baptist Church. In addition to this, I performed 
much labor, among the hundreds of sick soldiers in the Capitol of 
the United States. 

The first abuse I sought to correct, was the manner in which 
the}- buried the soldiers, the imperfect coffins, full of cracks, the 
the number they would dump into one wagon, putting them into 
graves half filled with water and leaving them uncovered until the 
next day, or longer. This I exposed through the press, as files of 
the papers will show, and a very radical change was brought 
about. The next victory was procuring the countermand of Gen. 
Hammond's order to break up the hospitals in the churches. This 
was accomplished through the War Department. It was aflSrmed 
by medical men that thirty or forty of the patients then in these 
hospitals would die if removed. I first learned of this order on 
Sunday evening as I went into Trinity Church hospital to hold 
religious services. The officers, attendants, and patients were in 
great excitement. They said, " Chaplain, What can we do?" I 
answered, " Believe in God and keep your powder dry," or words 
to that effect. "I will waive religious services to-night and see 
what can be done. You pray, and I will work and pray too." I 
jumped into my carriage with my sister-in-law. Miss Mary Sim- 
mons and rode down to the Washington House, and was soon seated 
in the presence of Senator Wilson of Mass., and his wife, who had 
done many acts of kindness, to the afflicted soldiers, and well knew 
their physical condition. I said, " Senator, we want this order of 
Gen. Hammond's countermanded." He answered, " Chaplain, 
what can I do for you?" " I want you to see Sec'y Stanton in 
person to-night, and tell him, that not less than thirty or forty of 
the patients will die, if removed." His wife endorsed what I said, 
and urged him to move quickly, which he did. We then called on 
Senator King, of N. Y. He being a bachelor seemed pleased, as 
I introduced to him my sister-in-law. I asked him to write a let- 
ter to Secretary Stanton, requesting him to countermand General 
Hammond's order, and thereby save the lives of thirty or forty 
sick soldiers. I told him that some of the wealthiest, and most 
loyal of the church desired Trinity Church to be retained as a hos- 
pital. The letter was quickly written, and I started to see Bro. 
Roberts who lived near the City Hall, believing he had personal 
influence with Stanton. We met him just starting for church, and 



46 LIFE SKETCHES OF 

requested him to take this letter of King*s at once to Stanton, and 
Senator Wilson would be there. For a moment he hesitated, say- 
ing, " We have just started for church." His wife said, " Never 
mind the church, God will excuse us to-night." This lady, with 
Mrs. Dodge, had spent probably over $1,000 for the afflicted sol- 
diers in my hospital. I need not say Bro. R. went. The next 
day the order was countermanded, so that day was one of rejoic- 
ing, especially to the afflicted ones in that hospital. The officers 
and patients presented me with a silver-headed cane ; also an Eng- 
lish bound Bible weighing nearly thirty pounds, valued at $60, 
bearing the following inscription; "Presented to W. G. Ray- 
mond, Chaplain Trinity General Hospital, by the Medical Officers, 
Attendants, and Patients of the Hospital, as a tribute to his 
worth. Washington, D. C, Feb. 1863." 

We could write many pages recording wonderful conversions 
and other incidents of interest while Chaplain, but will relate 
only one case of a Penn. soldier. He was shot through his body, 
just below his heart. When I called on him, I found he was an 
infidel. I asked if he would like me to read the Bible to him, and 
pray. He said emphatically, " No. It will be of no use, I have 
lived an infidel, and shall die one." I said, " My friend, can't I 
do something for you ? Shan't 1 write a letter for you ? " He said, 
" I loould like a letter written for I have a wife and children, and 
they do not know I am wounded. I will say if there is a Christian 
on earth, my wife is one, and you will find it so, if you ever see her." 
The letter was sent and the answer came quickly, in which she 
pleaded for me to do all in my power, to lead him to Christ. She 
said, she had believed for years, that he would be saved. She 
thanked God that one man had made an effort to save him. When 
he read this letter, he burst into a flood of tears, and said, " Chap- 
lain, I guess I did make a mistake. You may read and pray with 
me." I did so. As my prayer was ended, he asked, " Do you 
think there is a possibilitj^ of my salvation?" I answered, " Yes, 
Jesus died for just such sinners as you, and He'll save you now." 
" Only believe." He was so low, he could only speak in a whis- 
per. I left him a moment to rejoice with a soldier that had just 
found Jesus, when he beckoned me, to come back. He said, 
" Chaplain, look at me, speaking in a louder tone." I said, " I 
see a great change in you. Are you going to rally?" He looked 
up and said, " I know what it is, Jesus Christ has had mercy on 



ELDER W. G. RAYMOND. 47 

my poor soul," and began to sing " Oh, bow bappy are tbey wba 
their Saviour obey," singing so loudly that tbey could bear him, 
in 'every ward in the hospital. Dr. Sidney in charge of the hospi- 
tal, a very wicked man, came up to see him as be thus rejoiced. 
The soldier threw his arms around the Doctor's neck, thanking him 
for bis kindness, and told him what the Lord bad done for his soul 
and asked, if he would meet him in heaven. The Doctor prom- 
ised that he would, and went and sat down in a chair by the desk,. 
and cried aloud, so as to be heard all through the hospital. Hear- 
ing him, I went to see what was the trouble, and asked, " Doctor^ 
What is the matter?" He said, "I have just listened to the 
greatest sermon, I ever heard preached. That dying soldier, is the 
happiest man I ever saw, and I have promised him, to prepare to 
meet him in Heaven." The soldier died in a few daj's, continuing 
thus triumphant, to the last. As I returned from burying him, bis 
wife came into the hospital. At first, she manifested great grief,- 
because she was too late, to see him in bis last moments, but when 
she was informed of his glorious conversion, and victory over 
death, she became cheerful, and resigned to God's will. I took 
her to my own house, and she was entertained there, until she re- 
turned to Penn. I have said, " my own house," for my family 
bad previously moved to Washington on Fourth St., East Capitol 
Hill. 

While Chaplain, my work was not limited to my own hospitals^ 
but I visited more or less, not only those in Washington, but in 
Georgetown and Alexandria, Fairfax Seminary, Va., and many 
other points. One night I was called to labor for dying soldiers 
in the Capitol, and continued my labors all night. Other Chris- 
tian workers mostly women, were also busy all night, for there 
were at this time, some eighteen hundred of these sick, wounded^ 
and dying soldiers, reaching from one end of the Capitol to the 
other. 

I frequently preached Jesus in the House of Representatives,, 
and also the Senate. Laboring night and da}', with the sick and 
wounded, my health gave way and I suffered from liver-complaint,^ 
and general prostration, from which, I never really, fully recovered, 
until healed of the Lord, of which, I shall speak farther on. Dur- 
ing all my service, under the Government, I usually put in from 
sixteen to eighteen hours, out of the twenty-four of hard, perilous 
work. 



Chapter V. 



Detective Incidents, Raising Regiment of Colored Men, 

War Meetings, Newspaper Reports, Book Business, 

Call to the Indian Reservation, Letters, One 

Year on Reservation, Other Mission Fields. 



FTER leaving the Chaplaincy, I was urged to take 
a position in the War Department as Detective, 
and was assigned a post under Gen. Baker, and 
usually worked by special orders from the War 
Department. Once I was sent to Martinsburg, 
Va., carrying the following commission: 

Office Provost Marshal, War Dept. 
Washington City, Sept. 8, 1863. 
To lohom it may concern : 

The bearer, W. G. Raymond, is a Detective Officer of this 
Department. Any attentions or facilities afforded him in the 
prosecution of his duties will be appreciated. 





/::^<^^Z^^ ^^^^^ ^^r^A, 



I stopped and spent some little time at Frederick City, Md., 
and learned that it was filled with enemies of the Government. 
The same at Point of Rocks, Berlin, and Harper's Ferry, where I 
spent a week or ten days. I confiscated about one hundred 
thousand dollars' worth of property, as it was a part of my work 
to look after titles. I was assisted by a man named Youngs, a 
government employ^. I ordered a notorious rebel, a blockade 
runner, into the same arsenal where John Brown defended him- 
self. I visited Charlestown where John Brown, Cook, and others 
were executed. 

I was led up the Shenandoah, to see a man that lived in the 
country, as he had promised to assist me in capturing Mobley the 



ELDER W. G. EAYMOND. 49 

most notorious guerrilla and thief. I rode up to the top of the 
mountain, and had occasion to stop. I had a presentiment that 
Mobley was coming, seeming to hear his horses, and the rattling 
of his sabres, but looking in the direction of the sounds, for 
miles, I could see nothing. I started down the mountain, lead- 
ing my horse down to the river, when again I heard the same rat- 
tling. I hurried back to the point of observation, but still could 
discover nothing. I gave up my purpose of taking dinner with a 
loyal family down by the river and for the first time while in the ser- 
vice, became very nervous and fearful, so that 1 mounted my horse 
and determined to return to Harper's Ferry without seeing the man, 
who promised to help me. In less than one hour, the news came 
to Harper's Ferry that Mobley had passed right down where I had 
been, and captured three men of the family where I had purposed 
to dine ; also a number of horses, and sent word down to Harper's 
Ferry, that if Gen. Sherwood did not behave himself, they would 
come the next night, and drag him out of his bed. Had it not 
been for the presentiment given me, (I believe, of the Lord,) I 
should have been captured with the others, and no doubt hung 
right there, as I had my silver badge inside my vest. 
I then forwarded the following dispatch : 

Harper's Ferry, Va., Sept. 16, 1863. 

CoL. Baker : /Sir, — I have my weekly report nearly completed, 

^and will send it by next mail. I have good success as my report 

will show. I would like one or two of your best guns, and, with 

your permission, will bring you the scalp of Mobley, the notorious 

guerrilla, within three days. Yours respectfull3% 

W. G. Raymond. 

On the receipt of this dispatch. Col. Baker telegraphed back 
that other work was waiting for me, requiring my return. So my 
project was dropped. 

I went down to Point of Rocks to watch the runaways of smug- 
glers. The Provost Marshal had promised me men for that' 
night to assist me. A young man being with me, we rode out to a 
farm house, to feed the horses and get supper. I had neglected to 
get the countersign, as it did not occur to me that they had a 
guard. On my return, we tarried to water the horses at a brook. 
As we were riding up a little elevation, a gun was fired, the con- 
tents passing close by the young man. Then the command 
■"Halt!" was given. Very quickly thirteen soldiers with 
4 



50 LIFE SKETCHES OF 

pointed guns, were standing just front, within a few rods of us^ 
The guns were cocked all ready to fire and if one had fired, all 
would have done so. This frightened our horses, so that we 
couldn't come to a halt and I said so, and still he cried, ''Halt ! '* 
I said, "I have halted, but I can't keep the horses feet still.'* 
During the time the sentinel who had fired, had reloaded his gun 
and was just putting the cap on, when I shouted out, "You hol- 
low halt to me again, or move your gun, I'll shoot you dead. I 
am a friend without the countersign. Is the Lieutenant of the 
Guard present?" He making no response, I repeated the ques- 
tion. A soldier said, " Yes." Up to this time they had made no 
effort to learn who I was. I said, " Lieutenant come down here 
and I will show you I am a man of authority." He started, and 
then all at once, started to go back. I said, " If you go back I'll- 
shoot 3^ou dead." He then came trembling. I said in an under- 
tone, " Put you hand on this badge," and as he did so, whispered 
"Detective of the War Department." Then he cried, "All 
right. Guards to your post," and we went into headquarters with 
him. On the way I said, "You have been playing 'sharp' 
tonight, and if I knew that you had given the order to shoot and 
then cried halt, I would shoot you down in your tracks this 
minute, for the Captain knew that a Detective of the War Depart- 
ment would come through the lines tonight. We could have shot 
you all down in half a minute, as we are well armed and I thought 
you were Mobley." 

A report came to the oflSce from over the Eastern Branch, 
Md., that a deserter from the Southern Army had several 
government horses and had defied one of the Detectives by the 
name of Bickford, and so intimidated him by threats that he dare 
not arrest him or take the horses. Col. Baker called me into the 
oflflce. He said, " Raymond, there is a man up in Maryland 
defying a U. S. oflScer. I want you to go and bring him to this 
oflSce, dead or alive. Select whom you choose to accompany 
you." Two of us returned with Bickford that afternoon. At 
nightfall we rode into a piece of woods and hitched our horses y 
then surrounded the deserter's house, secreting ourselves, as I 
believed he was lying outside, which proved to be true. Just at 
daylight he came in from the woods, and going into his house said 
to his wife, "Have they been here to-night?" She answered, 
"• No," then as he came right out I took him by the collar saying, 
" You are my prisoner. You are charged with the crime of steal- 



ELDER W. G. RAYMOND. 51 

ing government horses and resisting a U. S. officer." His wife 
coming out, begged for his life. I said "We won't hurt him, if 
he'll behave himself and tell where those government horses are.'" 
He said, "I'll show you and give them up." We went nearly a 
mile, where he had secreted them, and took them and him to 
Washington, delivering him to Col. Baker, who gave him a severe 
reprimand and said, "I shall have to shoot about half dozen of 
you fellows up there before you will behave yourselves." After he 
had shown penitence, I asked the Colonel to send him back to his 
family, as I thought they needed him, which he did. 

I could fill a volume with just such cases, had I time and space. 
The next point of interest connected with the government was the 
raising of a regiment of colored soldiers by the verbal authorit}' of 
Abraham Lincoln, President of the United States. We com- 
menced by holding war meetings in the different churches. At the 
first meeting we were protected b)^ Massachusetts troops. We had 
large gatherings in the Israel Bethel church near the Capitol, and 
also in the Presbyterian church (colored), on 15th street, where 
very noted persons were present. In this meeting, after having 
given a somewhat extended account of the condition of the regi- 
ment, I took my seat near a window. This was in the basement 
of the church. Some unknown person came up to the window^ 
and aimed his pistol at my head, and would have blown out my 
brains, as was Abraham Lincoln's, had it not been for the window 
sash, but instead of passing under the sash, it passed over and hit 
the plastering above. In the excitement, while the colored boj'S. 
were getting their firearms in readiness, three pistols were dis- 
charged in the room without any serious injury being done. A 
portion of the soldiers rushed out in rear of the church in pursuit 
of my assailant and came near shooting innocent people, but 
thank God ! no one was seriously hurt. Two of the men that 
had agreed to stand by me were Senators Sumner, and Wilson, of 
Massachusetts, as they were very intimate, personal friends of 
mine. Commissioner Dole took a very active interest in this regi- 
ment, giving money and influence, and procured our commissions 
from Lincoln, and was with us when Lincoln set us to work, and 
procured a written order from President Lincoln to Secretary 
Stanton, which read as follows : 

Sec. Stanton, — You will do all that is in your power to assist 
these gentlemen (meaning Turner and Raymond) to complete this 
regiment. Abraham Lincoln. 



^2 LIFE SKETCHES OF 

This order Secretary Stanton threw down saying, " I don't know 
-anything about this regiment. It is all irregular and I shall 
watch it, and I shan't muster in the men till the minimum number 
is made out and the muster rolls made out and certified," a thing 
which had never before been required. We said, " All right. 
■We'll have the men ready," and he sent us, to Major Vincent, the 
J^ss't Adj. Gen. for further instruction. We called on the Major, 
who received us cordially, gave us books of instruction and said, 
'^' Whenever there is a company ready, let me know and I will 
have them mustered in." I asked him who should select the men 
to take command of the companies. He replied, " You will see 
to that." I enquired if he was willing that I should select colored 
(inenfor 2d Lieutenants and mentioned the names of Wm. Wormley, 
.and Cook, and others. He said, "That will be all right. Use 
your own judgment." Two companies were mustered in and 
.placed under my command, and I procured tents for them, and 
-inarched them through different portions of the city, into gov- 
ernment quarters near Baltimore and Ohio depot. Under our 
order Capt. Todd issued rations. Then the War Department 
took them out of our hands, though we had been to the expense 
of recruiting one thousand or more, feeding them at our own 
expense, for which we had never received a dime. My claim for 
this is now before Congress, as the following bill will show : 

[Printer's No., 8682.] 
47th Congress, 2d Session. H. R. 7262. 

In the House of Representatives. January 15, 1883. 
Head twice, referred to the Committee on War-Claims, and 

ordered to be printed. 

Mr. Ryan introduced the following bill : A Bill for the relief 
of William G. Raymond. 

Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the 
United States of America in Congress assembled^ 

That there be, and hereby is, appropriated, out of any money 
in the Treasury not otherwise appropriated, the sum of nine 
thousand two hundred and fifteen dollars, to be paid William 
O. Raymond, for his services in organizing, recruiting, subsisting, 
and for money expended for same, for the First Regiment Colored 
Volunteers of the District of Columbia, under authority from 
Abraham Lincoln, the President of the United States. This sum 
of money, when so paid, shall be in full satisfaction for all claim 
or claims appertaining id the organization and mustering said 
regiment. 



ELDER W. G. RAYMOND. 5^ 

The truthfulness of the above statements, and the justice of my 
claim, is proved b}' the affidavits of a number of persons, and 
numerous newspaper clippings a few of which, from different 
Washington papers, we copy below : 

" The Colored Man in Battle. 
It has been announced in the columns of The Republican^ that 
an effort is being made, to recruit a regiment of men of color, in 
the District of Columbia, to fight the battle of the Union and Lib- 
erty, against the encroachments of the slave power, and that Rev.- 
W. G. Raymond has been named as the commander of such regi- 
ment. The propriety of this movement no longer admits of dis- 
pute. The colored man is a fitting soldier of the Republic. Irt 
every battle field, he is proving his devotion and his bravery. He- 
can face the rebel enemies of the Government, wherever rhey may 
appear, and he can withstand all the vicissitudes and evils of the 
Southern clime. In many localities, he must be our reliance' 
This is all settled, and as it respects the commander named, permit 
me to say that this city owes a large debt of gratitude to that 
gentleman for the skill, the address, the energy, and the bravery 
exercised by him in bringing order out of the chaos that pervaded 
Washington in the earlier days of this rebellion. The colored man 
is entitled to a fair opportunity in the beginning of his marshal, 
career, and to insure this he must have a commander worthy his.- 
respect and confidence. Such a man is Mr. Raymond. A Chris- 
tian and a soldier, he will lead his men in prayer and in battle^ 
and we may well hope that he may prevail in both. 

An Old Citizen." 

The above was from a noted Southern gentleman in the Patent 
Office, and a ruling Elder in the Presbyterian Church. 

" The Colored Regiments. 
We are pleased to learn that the Secretary of War has recog- 
nized the applications of Colonels Turner and Raymond to organ^ 
ize a colored regiment in this cit^^ The Secretarj- of War will send 
mustering officers to muster them into the service to-morrow. All 
desiring to connect themselves with either of these regiments are 
requested to meet at the Israel Bethel Church, near the Capitol^ 
to-morrow at 9 o'clock, a. m., when they will be mustered in and 
assigned quarters immediately. There will also be a ratificatioi*. 
meeting held on the same evening at the same church." 



54 LIFE SKETCHES OF 

" The Colored Regiment in the District. 

The Secretary of War to-day, on application of Commissioner 
Dole, consented to receive the colored soldiers by companies in- 
stead of requiring the entire regiment to be raised before accept- 
ing it. The recruits are directed to meet at the Contraband Camp 
on Monday noon, when they will be mustered in and provided 
for." 

" Another War Meeting of the Colored Men. 

A meeting was held last night in the Fifteenth Street Presbyte- 
rian Church in aid of the new regiment. The meeting was called 
to order by Thomas H. Hinton, and Rev. Dr. Shelton, of Ohio, 
was chosen Chairman, and D. W. Wight, Secretary. Lieut. Col. 
Ra3^mond then stated briefly the object of this meeting, and spoke 
of the progress of the regiment. Encouraging and highly inter- 
-esting remarks were made by Dr. Shelton, Geo. W. Hatton, Col. 
Birney, Rev. Mr. Scott, of Iowa, Mr. Hinton, and Col. Turner. 
The meeting adjourned to meet on the green, south of the Capitol, 
near the Israel Bethel Church, on Frida}-, the 5th instant, at 3 
o'clock, p. M., when a grand mass meeting will be held." 

" The War Meeting of the Colored Men. 
Pursuant to a notice in The Republican of last evening, a 
large meeting was held in the Union Bethel Church, on M Street, 
between Fifteenth and Sixteenth streets. Quite a number of 
white people were present among whom we noticed several officers 
and soldiers. The meeting was organized by selecting Mr. 
Edward Green as Chairman, and Mr. A.N. Sanborn as Secretary. 
The object of the meeting was then stated by Lieutenant Colonel 
Raymond, who made a few appropriate remarks. He stated some of 
the disadvantages under which they had labored, and also the pre- 
judices existing against colored soldiers. He said they had over 
eight hundred men that would bear inspection, if they were called 
out to-day ; and if officers and quarters had been assigned them 
they might have had one thousand or fifteen hundred men mus- 
tered in. They had plenty of provisions offered them, and only 
needed quarters. Colonel R. was frequently interrupted by cheers 
and applause. Remarks were also made by Dr. Shelton, Captain 
Thomas, Colonel Bingham, Mr. Crawford, and others. Resolu- 
tions, in reference to a retaliatory proclamation on the part of 
our Government for the protection of the colored soldiers, were 



ELDER W. G. RAYMOND. 55 

then read and unanimously adopted. After which a committee of 
four was appointed to wait upon the President with the resolu- 
tions. The roll was then opened for the enrollment of names for 
the First District of Columbia Colored Volunteers, when a num- 
ber came forward and signed the roll." 

" Another War Meeting of Colored Men. 

Last night, according ta appointment, a meeting of colored citi- 
zens was convened at the Israel Bethel Church, near the Capitol, 
in aid of the regiment now forming. The large audience room 
was crowded. The meeting was organized by the selection of 
Rev. H. M. Turner (colored) as Chairman, and Frank A. Taverns 
(colored) as Secretary. Lieut. Col. Raymond then gave a brief 
statement of the progress in the organization of the new regiment. 
It was expected that two companies would have been mustered in 
that day ; but owing to delays in getting the men together in the 
forenoon, and the lateness of the hour before the order from War 
Department could be obtained, the matter was deferred until the 
next morning. He also stated that the arduous duties which had 
devolved upon Col. Turner, and his active zeal in bringing mat- 
ters to their present encouraging aspect, had worn upon his mind 
to such an extent as to cause his health to give way temporarily, 
and he was now quite ill, and unable to be present. He hoped 
the prayers of all the good among their people would ascend to 
the throne of grace for his recovery. 

Col. R. then exhibited a beautiful silk flag — the stars and 
stripes — and stated that this had been presented to the regiment 
during the day by a patriotic colored lady, who, having been pros- 
pered herself in this world's goods, desired the prosperity and ele- 
vation of her race. The following letter, which accompanied the 
flag, was then read and greeted with tumultuous applause : — 

Washington, May 18, 1863. 
CoL. Raymond : Please accept for your regiment this flag as a 
token of my good wishes, hoping that it may be the first to reach 
Richmond. Having been fortunate myself, I doubt not you will 
share the same luck with this banner. 

I remain your sincere friend, 

Julia Henderson. 

This regiment, was the first to enter Richmond, though ques- 
tioned. 



56 LIFE SKETCHES OF 

Col. R. then read extracts from The Republican of last evening, 
showing how well colored soldiers can behave in battle. He 
thanked the press of this city for their favorable notices of this 
regiment. Dr. Cooper (colored), of Michigan, was then intro- 
duced. He was in Chicago three weeks ago, and all the way from 
that great city to this he found but one sentiment prevailing with 
the colored people. They wished to fight. He had heard but one 
objection urged, and that was the fear that they would not be 
treated as prisoners of war if captured. He believed this Gov- 
ernment strong enough to protect them, and it would do it. Gov- 
ernor Andrew's letter was cited in proof of this. A soldier is a 
soldier, no matter what his color. (Applause.) He (Dr. C.) 
was going into the fight. (Applause.) He would not stay away 
on account of what Jeflf. Davis ma}' say. We are under no obli- 
gation to obey him. (Laughter.) If we have Abraham Lincoln, 
Secretary Stanton, and a host of loyal people at our backs with 
that flag waving. 

As before intimated, by raising this regiment of colored troops, 
I had incurred about a thousand dollars debt, hoping to get out of 
which, I went into the book business. As these books were all of 
yl^<<?/c/L^ a moral and religious character. General C. C. AJger gave me an 
y order to go into the diflferent forts and sell. That year I cleared 

form two to three thousand dollars, and paid the thousand dollar 
debt. About this time, I met Dr. Taylor, of Brooklyn, N. Y., 
Ass't Secretary of The Home Mission Soeiet}' for the Indian Reser- 
vation. He wanted to know if I was at liberty. I said, " I am 
for anything the Lord wants of me." He said he had been look- 
ing and praying for a man who was capable of taking charge of 
the Indian school on the Pottawottamie Indian Reservation, Kan- 
sas, five miles from Topeka, the capital. He said they would give 
me ten or twelve hundred dollars a year and even more if I did not 
get the agency, but he thought there would be no failure in that, 
as Sec'y James Harlan had told him that he intended the mission- 
aries should be the agents of the Reservation and the salary of 
that oflSce was $1,800, and the perquisites would make it over 
$2,000. This call to the Indian Reservation I accepted, and ac- 
cordingly closed up my business in Washington, April, 1866, and 
started for my new field of labor. 

The following letters handed me just before we left Washington 
will show the appreciation of those with whom we had been there 
associated, for four years, during the war. 



ELDER W. G. RAYMOND. 57 

Post Office, Washington, D. C, April 10, 1866. 
Rev. W. G. Raymond : My Dear Sir,— Vermit me to join your 
many friends in this city in the expression of my good wishes for 
your future welfare and happiness and for your success in the new 
field of labor in which you are about to enter. Your patriotic 
course during the rebellion, the services you rendei'ed our sick 
and wounded heroes, and your many noble acts while in command 
of the Provost Guard of this city, have endeared 3"ou to every 
loyal man in this District whose good will and friendship you will 
carry with you to your new and distant home. 

That 3'ou may find kind friends, those who will appreciate your 
motives and intentions, in the far off West, is the ardent prayer of 
Truly and sincerely your friend, 

S. P. BovTEN, Postmaster. 



Washington, D. C, i^pril 10, 1866. 
Rev. W. G. Raymond : My Dear Friend and Brother, — Your 
mission field is changing. For some years you have been laboring 
in this vicinity and while endeavoring to do good to others you 
have allied yourself by warm friendships to many christian hearts. 
In separating from you and bidding you farewell, I look with no 
small interest to that field which God has, I trust, selected for 
you. I hope you may be encouraged and blessed in 3'our labors 
and even the unborn Pottawottamies will in the future rise up to call 
you blessed. May God strengthen and bless 3'Ou abundantly on 
earth, and give you a place in his kingdom at last. 

Truly yours, A. Chester. 

The above gentleman was at the head of a bureau in the Patent 
office, and a minister of the gospel. 



Washington, April 10, 1866. 

Col. W. G. Raymond : My Dear Sir, — From the beginning of 
the war to the present moment I have known 3'OU as a true soldier, 
a gallant officer, and an earnest Christian minister, and a sterling 
man. On the eve of your departure for the home of the Indian 
in the West, to whom I am sure you will prove a friend and ben- 
efactor, I desire to commend you to the favor of all good men, 
and to the protecting care for 3^ou and yours of our Heavenly 
Father, without whom not even a sparrow falleth to the ground. 

Cordially and fraternall3S 

Thomas C. Connolly. 



58 



LIFE SKETCHES OF 



Senate United States, April 11, 1866. 
To whom it may concern : 

The bearer of this, the Rev. Mr. Raymond, goes to Kansas as 
Missionary to the Pottawottamie Indians, and I take pleasure in 
-cordially commending him to the confidence and esteem of our 
friends both in Kansas and on the way. Any favor extended 
him by any railroad company will be worthily bestowed and duly 
appreciated. 

Very respectfully, etc. 



(Senator) 







I cordially concur in the above, having known Col. Raymond 
for several years, I cheerfully commend him to those with whom 
he may be associated in his new home, and I desire to say further 
that any favor extended to him will be appreciated by our late 
lamented Secretary of the Treasury, 




L^S!^^€>^ — ' ^^^^y^ 



Xi! J^£-^. 



I have known the Rev. Mr. Raymond for the past four years, 
:and fully concur in what is said of him in the foregoing notes, and 
unite in commending him to the confidence and kindness of 
Christian friends wherever he may go, and especially in his new 
and interesting field of labors. 

(Senator) O. H. Browning. 



I fully concur. 



(Senator) 




(Senator) 



E. COWANN. 



ELDER W. G. RAYIVIOND. 59 

Department of the Interior, 

Washington, D. C, April 16, 1861. 
To whom it may concern : 

I have been informed of the appointment of Eev. Wm. G. 
Haymond, as Missionary to the Pottawottamie Indians, by the 
Baptist Board of Missions. 

He is represented to me to be a most excellent and worthy 
•Christian minister. Wishing for him success in his new fields of 
labor, I commend him to the generous sympathies of all who feel 
-an interest in the welfare of these dependent wards of the govern- 
ment. Ver}' respectfulh^ etc. 



(Senator) ^^^^ 




Arriving at the Reservation, I immediately commenced labor. 
The first effort I made was an application to the government for 
$2000.00 to repair the building, and obtained it, and saw it well 
■expended. Failing to realize the fulfillment of Dr. Taylor's 
promise, I only remained one 3'ear. During this 3'ear my son, 
"William Andrew, now in Kansas, was born. 



Headquarters, 86th Regiment, N. Y., 

February 17, 1863. 
Capt. Raymond, Chaplain : Dear Sir ^ — I write to inform you that 
Gen. Piatt at his own request is relieved from command of this brig- 
ade and the command again devolves upon me, and I hope you will 
spare no pains and that you will use every effort to procure my ap- 
pointment to the oflSce of Brig. -General. I will procure letters from 
Generals Whipple, Wads worth, and Piatt, if I can, and forward 
them with as little dela}" as possible, and it how seems to me the 
appointment can be brought about and will be an honor to the 
86th. Please let me hear from 3'ou soon and let me know how it 
looks. Respectfully yours, 

B. P. Bailey, 
Col. Commanding 1st Brigade^ Whipple Division. 



60 LIFE SKETCHES OF 

Harper's Ferry, Va., Sept. 16, 1863. 
Col. Baker : Sir, — I have my weekly report nearly complete 
and will send it by next mail. I have good success, as my report 
will show. I would like one or two of 3'our best guns, and, with 
your permission, will bring yout he scalp of Mobley, the notorious 
guerilla, within three days. 

I would like a little more money at your earliest convenience. 

Yours respectfullj', 

W. G. Raymond. 



Baltimore and Ohio Railroad, 

President's Office, 

Baltimore, April 10, 1866. 
Deal' Sir, — The President has received your communication 
of 9th inst. Half fare tickets to ministers are confined to those 
alone having parochial duties on our line. 

In the case of the Rev. Wm. G. Raymond, however, the Presi- 
dent is willing to make an exception to the rule. 

You will therefore please find enclosed an order on our Agent 
at Washington (Mr. Gr. T. Kountz) authorizing a ticket, at half 
fare, from Washington to Bellarie for the party named. 

Very respectfulh'^ yours, 
E. E. Taylor, Esq., Andrew Anderson, 

Cor. Sec, A. B. H. M. T., Secretary to Presidents 

Avenue House, Washington. 



United States Internal Revenue, 

Collector's Office, District of Kansas, 

Leavenworth, Jan. 25, 1875. 

Gentlemen, — The bearer, Mr. W. G. Raymond, has a pending^ 
claim before the House of which you are honored members. I 
know nothing of the merits of the claim, but do know that Mr* 
Raymond commends the confidence of all who know him, as a 
Christian gentleman above the suspicion of a dishonorable act. 

He says he has no personal acquaintance with you and it gives, 
me pleasure to present him by this note. 

Very respectfully, 

Geo. T. Anthony.. 
To Hons. D. P. Lowe, 

S. A. Cobb, M. C. 




■ ^ ^-^^ ^^^"■■■^v\v^•t^^— • 



Maj.-Gen. C. C. AUGUR. 



ELDER W. G. RAYMOND. 



61 



Washington, D. C, 
Headquarters Department of Washington, 
2 2d Army Corps, 

Washington, D. C, April 10, 1866. 
The Rev. W. G. Raymond has been known to me for the last 
two years in connection with the services as Chaplain at one of our 
hospitals, and his duties as a colporteur and friend of our soldiers. 
I found him most faithful and devoted in his duties — active and 
watchful for opportunities to do good to the sick and distressed. 
I have a great regard for him as a sincere and devoted Christian and 
cordially commend him to all with whom he is brought in contact 
in his new field of labor. 



yCtP . Cjp i 







I can concur with all that has been said in this letter above of 
Gen. Argur and rejoice that so energetic and good a man as Gen. 
Raymond has consented to take charge of the Baptist Mission at 
the Pottawottamie Reservation. 




Late Com. of Indian Affairs. 



I concur fully in the foregoing. 




^^TK.Mi. ^'-^^^^ 




62 LIFE SKETCHES OF 

Cuba, Feb. 12, 1855. 
To whom it may concern: 

We, the Missionary Committee of Cattaraugus Association^ 
take great pleasure in saying, that we have been personally on the 
Allegany Reservation, and that the condition of the Indians are 
such as to warrant any exertion that may be made for their 
elevation. And that we most sincerely call upon all the friends- 
of Zion to cheerfully respond to the call being made by a 
respected brother, Rev. W. G. Raj^mond, the authorized agent 
of said Committee, to solicit funds for erection of a suitable 
house of worship, on said reservation, for the use of the Indian 
Baptist Church. 

Done by order of said Committee, 
E. F. Crane, A. T. Cole, 

Clerk pro tern. Chairman Committee, 



The Home Mission Society received the benefit of all my 
outside labors and also of the farm on which I lived and of which 
I had the care — a farm of 320 acres. 

During this short missionary life, I rode nearty 3000 miles on- 
horseback in connection with my mission. I supplied the Topeka 
Baptist Church, the Auburn Baptist Church, 12 miles distant, the 
Burlingame Church in Osage Co., 24 miles distant, and another 
station 18 miles away, besides attending associations and con- 
ventions. 

I left the Reservation moneyless but not friendless, and 
launched out on to mostly missionar}^ fields, moving my family to 
Auburn, Kansas, and agreeing to preach there one-half the time;, 
the other half at Burlingame and other missionary points. My 
usual Sunday labors were three sermons and a ride of from three 
to ten miles, out and back. At one revival — the first in Auburn, 
there were from one to two hundred conversions, though all these 
did not continue to give satisfaction that the work was genuine. 
The fault, I think, lay in their being pressed into the church- 
before they were really saved. The Lord graciously visited 
Burlingame where some were genuinely saved. 

I left that field because they wanted me leave my work of 
preaching the Gospel to go out to beg funds to complete their 
meeting-house, when I knew there was wealth enough right 
among them for this purpose. 

About this time, I had a conversation with the M. E. minister 
of Auburn in regard to Mission Creek, about eight miles awa}^, a. 



ELDER W. G. RAYMOND. 63^ 

rich section of country. He asked me if I did not want that field. 
*' If 3'ou do," said he, " I will give it to 3'ou, for I have been 
preaching there for over a year, and they have not given me enough 
to pay for the salt I have used in my victuals." I laughed heart- 
ily and said, " Yes, Bro. Orwick, I'll take the field." I did so. 
In a few weeks, I witnessed there, the conversion of scores of 
precious souls, and baptized thirty or more willing converts and 
organized a Baptist Church, and within a year built a large, com- 
modious meeting house, clear of debt, and had the privilege of 
baptizing quite a number of Bro. O.'s Methodist members, one a 
wealthy lady nearl}" 80 years of age, who had been a Methodist 
nearly fifty j-ears. She said to me within a year after I baptized 
her. " Bro. Raymond, I have made more progress since I was 
baptized than in forty 3^ears before. 

Other points I reached during my missionary work was Williams- 
port, Lynn Creek, eight miles from Topeka, Big Springs, and 
other places. 






Chapter VI. 




Surgery, Medicine, and Associations with Doctors, Political 
Life, Its Baneful Influences, The Chastening Hand, 
Bereavements, An Invalid, Losses, Further Bereave- 
ment, Grasshopper Plague, Search for Health, 
Great Mistake and Humiliation, Healing, 
Second Coming. 



NEVER practised medicine for a living, though I 
could have gone into a very lucrative practice, with 
a very little additional study. I have assisted and 
performed surgical operations on a great many per- 
sons. One doctor in Pennsylvania b^^ the name of 
Pekham was erecting a building, and a heavy add 
fell from the top of the tall building, fracturing his 
skull making a long gash, of about three inches in length, and 
which would have cost him twenty-five or thirty dollars to have 
got a competent surgeon. When he became conscious he said, 
" Elder, you can do it." I sponged the wound, and cut the hair 
off, then removed all the fractured portions, then sewed the scalp 
nicely together, and covered it all over with a plaster, and within 
ten days he was out smart again. I have rode and consulted with 
physicians more or less for years. During my chaplaincy, I was 
invited by the regular army surgeons to consult in cases of 
surger}^ and some other diseases, and for the last eight years 
have sometimes had a thousand a month under my hands for 
healing. I think I ought to have some knowledge, and the cause, 
of them. I have had the very best physicians say to me, that 
they would not give medicine, if they thought they would not be 
detected, and would much rather give bread pills than blue pills. 
I will introduce a few extracts, from some of the most eminent 
doctors in the world. 



ELDER W. G. RAYMOND. 65 

Doctors and Medicine. 

Inasmuch as the subject of doctors and drugs has been brought 
to the attention of the people of this section of the country, let us 
introduce the testimony of some of the most prominent physicians 
in the world. 

Professor N. Chapman, late of the University of Pennsylvania, 
formed}" President of the Philadelphia Medical Society, and de- 
clared a few years ago to be at the head of the medical profession 
in America, says in " Materia Medica," vol. 1, page 3 : " Medical 
conclusions differ very widely from every other species of evi- 
dence. We cheat ourselves with a thousand illusions. It is not 
necessary that I should enforce this remark by the enumeration of 
Siuy examples. No one who is conversant with the practice need 
be told how often his own deductions have proved erroneous, and 
how little confidence is to be reposed in those pompous recommen- 
dations with which medicines are promulgated." 

On page 33 the same author says : " To trace the multiplied 
relations of medicine to disease, we at once introduce the spirit of 
speculation." 

Again he says: *' As it is, we are plunged into a labyrinth 
almost without a clue. Dark and perplexed, our devious career 
resembles the blind gropings of Homer's Cyclops round his cave." 

And again he says, page 32 : " This, indeed, is emphatically 
true, that we can hardly ever pronounce with certainty what will 
be the exact results from the dose administered. It might gratify 
our vanity, were it not more than counterbalanced *by the humili- 
ating view of so much absurdity, contradiction, and falsehood." 

Here, then, he admits that medical practice is an " illusion," 
and that it is " speculation." 

Sir Astley Cooper, physician to Queen Victoria, has declared" 
*' The science of medicine is founded upon conjecture and im- 
proved by murder." What a shocking statement from a man so 
eminent as to have the royal family in his professional care. 

Professor Armor, of the Long Island College Hospital, declares, 
in the New York Medical Journal for January, 1883, that '' drugs 
are administered, patients sometimes recover, and we suppose we 
have cured them, whereas our remedies have had little or nothing 
to do with their recovery. Very likely it took place in spite of 
our drugs." 
5 



66 LIFE SKETCHES OF 

Sir James JohnsoD, formerly editor of the Medical Chirurgical 
Review^ London, saj'S : " I declare, as my conscientious convic- 
tion, founded upon long observation and experiment, that if there 
were not a single physician, surgeon, chemist, druggist or drug on 
the face of the earth, there would be less sickness and less mor- 
tality than now prevail." 

Dr. Oliver Wendell Holmes has declared before the Massachu- 
setts Medical Society : "I fairly believe that if the whole mate- 
ria medica could be sunk to the bottom of the sea, it would be all 
the better for mankind and all the worse for the fishes." 

Prof. Magendie, the great French physician, whose experiments 
and teachings are recorded and scattered over the whole globe, 
addressed the students at the Paris Medical College in the follow- 
ing language : " Gentlemen, medicine is a great humbug. It is 
nothing like science. Doctors are mere empirics when they are 
not charlatans. We are ignorant as men can be. I must tell yovL 
frankly that I know nothing about medicines. I repeat to you, 
there is no such thing as medical science. I grant you people are 
cured, but how? Nature does a great deal but Doctors do devilish 
little.'' Think of it ; a man so high in the medical profession, as 
Dr. Magendie is acknowledged to be, lecturing in such style to a 
class ! 

Dr. James Mason Good, the noted author, says : " The science 
of medicine is a barbarous jargon, and the effects of our medicines 
in the highest degree unsatisfactory, except, indeed, that they have 
destroyed more lives than war^ pestilence and famine combined.'* 
How does this sound to the people who have a mania for swallow- 
ing medicine? 

Dr. Martin Paine, in his great work, " Institutes of Medicine," 
page 541, declares: " The most violent poisons are among our 
best remedies. We do but substitute one morbid action for 
another/' Dr. Paine is authority if there ever was any. He was 
Professor of Institutes of Medicine and Materia Medica in the 
University of the City of New York, and member of any number 
of learned societies in Europe and America. 

Dr. Hall, of HalVs Journal of Healthy says : " Medicine, even 
the mildest^ is a poison, and effects a result it proportion to its 
poisonous qualities. It cures by setting up a disease greater than 
the original which it seeks to cure." Hence the reader can easily 
see how it is that medicine seems to " cure " the simpler forms of 



ELDER W. G. RAYMOND. 67 

disease, by establishing the more serious ailments, such as heart 
disease, liver troubles, consumption, kidney disease, dyspepsia, 
paralysis, spinal trouble, female disorders, and the host of other 
chronic ailments which are acknowledged incurable by any drugs. 

It is the duty of a doctor to ease a man's pain, and quietly slip 
him out of this life into the Great Beyond. 

" Men who are really sick die, and we cannot save them." — 
Prof. Frederick R. Marvin, m. d. 

" I have no faith whatever in our medicines." — Dr. Bailey. 

" Medicine is so far from being a science that it is only con- 
jecture." — Dr. Evans. 

"Of the essence of disease very little is known." — Prof. S. 
H. Gross, M. D. 

*' Mercury has made more cripples than all wars combined." — 
Dr. McClintock. 

" The administration of our powerful medicines is the most 
fruitful source of deranged digestion." — Prof. E. R. Peaslee, m. d. 

" So gross is our ignorance of the physiological character of 
disease that it would be better to do nothing." — Magendie, 
France. 

" The physician mixes, combines and jumbles together vegeta- 
ble, mineral and animal substances, and administers them right or 
wrong, without considering for a moment the cause of the disease- 
and without a single clear idea as to his conduct." — Magendie. 

'• If the arts of medicine and surgery had never been invented^ 
by far the greater number of those who suffer from bodily illness- 
would have recovered, nevertheless." — Sir Benjamin Brodie, m. d. 

Dr. Abernathy, of London, declares : " There has been a great 
increase of medical men, and, upon my word, diseases have in- 
creased accordingly." It is truth and can be easily understood, 
if the people will onl}- stop swallowing drugs long enough to ex- 
amine into the matter. 

Dr. Martin Paine, the noted professor and medical author, says 
in his " Institutes of Medicine": " Remedial agents can never 
transmute morbid into healthful conditions." 

Dr. Franklin says that " Nature cures, while the doctor takes 
the fees." 

Another noted physician says that, " Medicine draws the 
patient's attention, while Nature cuts in and makes the cure."' 



i^S LIFE SKETCHES OF 

Dr. Wood, in his " Practice of Medicine," declares in the very 
^first chapter that " We have not yet learned the essential nature 
-of the healthy actions, and cannot, therefore, understand their 
derangements." I ask, then, how can a man treat successfully 
vthat which he does not understand? 

Dr. F. L. Oswald says : " Many sicknesses are caused by poi- 
sons foisted upon the system under the name of tonic, beverages 
■or remedial drugs ; the only cure is to shun the poisons." 

Sir Henry Baker, in describing the sufferings of his party while 
exploring the river Nile, states that he threw away his medicines 
and substituted nothing but a vapor bath, and after that his men 
.went on their way rejoicing. 

Dr. Livingstone gives an account of a similar experience. 

Dr. J. H. Kellogg, "Physician in Chief" and manager of one 
of the great institutions in America, says: "If a cure is 
effected, it must be through the wonder-ivorking of nature^ and not 
through the agency of any drug.'' The same author sa3's, " Med- 
ical quackery is by far the most dangerous of any form, yet the 
jcnost common." 

Dr. B. W. Richardson, one of the most noted physicians of 
Europe, says.* " The world, I must confess, would be happier if 
drugs were unknown." 

Dr. Thomas N. Reynolds, Professor of Materia Medica in the 
Detroit Medical College, said: " There is a most extraordinary 
misconception with regard to the true functions of medicines and 
medical men. It pervades the educated medical fraternity itself. 
It is a common thing to see the younger members of our profes- 
sion attributing to medicines cures that they never produced. 
Even the older ones prescribe remedies that serve nothing more 
fthan to satisfy the mind of the patient that he is taking medicine, 
and also to satisfy the doctor that he is ' doing something ' for 
the case. . . . This undue credit to the effect of drugs arises from 
habit. . . . With medical men the hope to hit upon the lucky 
remedy has, in all ages, led to the adoption of many absurd 
things, and to excessive dosing. Nothing but hard-earned expe- 
rience and frequent disappointments will ever convince the young 
doctor of the worthlessness of drugs. . . . Doctors should be edu- 
cators, rather than physic-mongers." 

Such is the testimony of a man at the head of a great medical 
college. 



> 

ELDER W. G. RAYMOND. 69* 

" All medicines are poisonous." — Prof. S. St. John, m. d. 

'• What we call medical science^ is a jumble of inconsistent opin- 
ions." — Dublin Medical Journal. 

" Nine times out of ten our miscalled remedies are injurious to 
our patients." — Prof. Jamieson, Scotland. 

" Physicians have hurried thousands to their graves who would- 
have recovered if left to Nature." — Prof. Clark, New York. 

'' Every dose of medicine is a blind experiment on the vitality 
of the patient." — Bostwick's History of Medicine. 

" I fearlessly assert that in most cases our patients would be 
safer without a physician than with one." — Dr. Ramage, f. c. r, 

"All our curative agents are poisons, and, as a consequenccy 
ever}" dose diminishes the patient's vitality." — Prof. Clark. 

" The ' vital effects' of medicines are ver}^ little understood. It 
is a term employed to cover an ignorance." — Prof. Davis. 

" The popular medical system has neither philosophy nor com- 
mon-sense to commend it to confidence." — Dr. Evans, f. c. R.r 
London. 

" The drugs which are administered for the cure of scarlet fever,- 
kill far " more patients than those diseases do." — Prof. Baker, 
New York Medical College. 

" All our cogitations respecting the modus operandi of medi- 
cines are purely empirical." — Prof. Chas. D. Meigs, Jeffersor* 
Medical College, Philadelphia, Pa. 

" The reason medicine has advanced so slowly, is because phy- 
sicians have studied the writings of their predecessors, instead of 
Nature." — Alex. H. Stephens, m. d. 

" Ninety-nine out of every hundred medical facts are medical 
lies, and medical doctrines are, for the most part, stark, staring 
nonsense." — Prof. Gregory, Edinburgh. 

" The modus operandi of medicines is still ver}^ obscure. We 
know that they operate, but exactly how thej^ operate is entirely 
unknown." — Prof. E. H. Davis, m. d., New York Medical 
College. 

" All medicines which enter the circulation poison the blood in 
the same manner as do the poisons that produce disease." — Prof. 
Joseph M. Smith, m. d., New York College of Physicians and 
Surgeons. 

"It is my firm belief that the prevailing mode of practice is- 
productive of vastl}" more evil than good, and were it absolutely 



70 LIFE SKETCHES OF 

:aboli shed, mankind would be infinitely the gainer." — Dr. Cogs- 
well , Boston. 

" What do persons, who call themselves reasonable, do in the 
midst of a hundred doctors, with a hundred different medicines, 
each affirming that his own is good, and that all the rest are bad? 
Do they reject them all? No, they swallow them all!" — Dr. 
Trail. 

" Thousands are annuallj' slaughtered in the quiet sick-room.'* 

— Prof. Frank, m. d., London. 

It is the universal testimony of all experienced physicians, that 
the people are fanatical and want to be swallowing drugs. At a 
medical association in Northern Indiana, one of the oldest and 
most successful doctors present arose, and in a public speech to 
the other doctors, declared that the older he grew and the more 
•experience he had, the less medicine he gave ; and at the close of 
his speech he strongly intimated that if he continued much longer 
in the practfce he would abandon drugs altogether. 

Dr. Kellogg, at the head of the great Medical Sanitarium, 
says: " The public have been kept in the dark for ages, until 
they have come to believe that the^^ must, without asking any 
questions, swallow whatever the doctor prescribes." 

Dr. A. H. Stephenson says : " The older physicians grow, the 
more skeptical they become in the virtues of their owe medi- 
cines." 

'* We might fill a volume with a list of physicians who condemn 
the Medical Science as not only not beneficial, but absolutely 
injurious and killing in its effects. Is it any wonder, then, that 
the public demand a system of cure without these murderous 
drugs, when the physicians themselves condemn them as hurtful? " 

— Water Cure Journal. 

I have introduced only a fractional part of the testimony which 
I have from only the most eminent ph3'sicians and medical authors 
in the world. 

Again I say unto you, that if two of 3'ou shall agree on earth 
as touching anything that they shall ask, it shall be done for them 
.of my Father which is in Heaven. — Matthew xviii : 19. 
(A Promise of Agreement.) 

In vain shalt thou use many medicines. — Jer. xlvi : 11. 

Ye are all phj^sicians of no value. — Job xiii : 4. 



ELDER W. G. RAYMOND. 71 

The diseased have ye not strengthened, neither have ye healed 
that which was sick. — Ezek. xxxiv : 4. 

And Asa . . . was diseased in his feet, until his disease was 
exceeding great : 3^et in his disease he sought not to the Lord, but 
to the physicians. And Asa slept with his fathers and died. — 
2 Chron, xvi : 12, 13; 3/arA; xvi : 17, 18, 20. 

Is any sick among 3'ou? let him call for the elders of the 
church ; and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the 
name of the Lord : and the prayer of faith shall save the sick, 
and the Lord shall raise him up. — Jas. v : 14, 15. 

I am the Lord that healeth thee. — Ex. xv : 26. 

iev. xxvi : 15, 16. Oen. xx . 17. Num. xii : 13. Markxi: 

13. 2 Kings v : 14. 1 Sam. vi : 3. 103d Psalm, 2, 3, 4, 5. 

John xiv : 12. 

» 

Regarding my political life in Kansas, I refer to it reluctantly 
and with many regrets, although I believe I was on the right side 
of the political issue which was liberty or slaver}'. There seemed 
to be, as I then thought, a necessity to engage in the politics of 
that new state. This I did faithfully and effectually, as many 
Senators as well as Governors and other politicians would testify. 
There is one consoling thought as I review this record, it is, that 
though I mingled intimately with infidels and scoffers of religion 
and men who were using bribes and deceiving and lying, I never 
accepted a bribe nor handled mone}' to bribe, nor wilfully lied. I 
may sometimes have evaded, but I sought to out-general my antag- 
onist, and in doing so formed alliances which I now consider un- 
justifiable for a Gospel minister, and I know had the tendency to 
divert my mind from the simplicity of the religion of Christ, and 
weaken my religious influence over those with whom I thus asso- 
ciated. Not that I neglected the ordinary practical duties of my 
profession as a minister, but felt in m}' devotional seasons when 
going before God, either in secret or in public, that I had not free 
access to the throne as I had had. I know the Lord has forgiven 
the sins of that course. 

Another baneful influence of this political life. I naturally be- 
came worldly minded, dabbling in railroad projects, holding rail- 
road meetings, and using what I now regard as deception in bring- 
ing the projects before the people, in order to induce Eastern capi- 



72 LIFE SKETCHES OF 

talists to assume the responsibilities of completing the road. I 
can now see that there was an undue and unjustifiable influence 
brought to bear in voting county and town bonds, which in many 
cases would deceive those who purchased them. Another thing I 
regret is mj^ trafficking in blooded horses and fine stock, and ex- 
hibiting them in the fairs to compete for the premiums, these 
premiums generally resulting in dissatisfaction. 

Though I did accumulate some property through these channels, 
yet I did not long enjoy it before the Lord's chastening hand was 
laid upon me. Blow after blow fell. First my dear wife was 
stricken down with an illness which, after one 3'ear, terminated in 
her death which occurred in Brookfield, Tioga Co., Pa., in the 
same room in which her mother had died. 

Complying with my wife's wishes to go to her father's in Brook- 
field, I was compelled to put my five horses on the market and sell 
them for whatever they would bring. Then my large stock barn 
all ready for completion, never was finished and its walls stand 
there still as a monument of God's displeasure. Then there was 
the expense of taking my family so far. This with the hope of 
my wife's regaining her health, but she only lived six weeks' after 
reaching her old home and died in the fall of 1871. She left the 
clearest evidence of her acceptance with the Lord and it is a satis- 
faction to me that I devoted that whole year, to the neglect of 
every thing, to her. Every night I had the special care of her, 
for I purposed to go just as far towards the grave with her as I 
could go. She was buried in the family graveyard, in a beautiful 
grove, on her father's farm by the side of her dear departed 
mother and brother-in-law. One year I remained there, a grave 
worshipper. I would remain at the grave for hours, and then go 
into the woods and some times remain there the balance of the 
day. At the end of the year, my health failed. 

This brings me to the year 1872. I was then taken ill with a 
complication of diseases, any one of which, phj'sicians said, must 
prove fatal. I had abscesses, and ulcers in the stomach, heart 
disease, liver, kidney and bladder troubles. Worse than these 
diseases was the habit of taking opium. The fall previous to my 
being taken so seriously ill in the spring. Prof. Kent advised my 
taking Bigelow's Purified Opium, to relieve me of pains from 
bilious eolic to which I was a subject. The habit was soon fixed. 

During m}' long illness, I was faithfully attended by eminent 
physicians, among whom was Prof. Kent, who was considered the 



ELDER W. G. RAYMOND. 75 

ver}' best. He was a member of my church anc] an intimate anrl 
beloved friend. At one time I lay forty-eight hours in a comatose 
state. My son came to bury me, During this time Prof. K. 
did not leave me to see another patient. His mother and sister 
prayed for my life, all night long, and in the morning I opened 
my eyes. The " prayer of faith " saved me and the Lord raised 
me up. Still, I was not healed, but continued for ten years a 
hopeless invalid, suffering continually in my stomach, my only 
relief being by the use of the opium which I was seldom without. 
When suffering, I would have given a large sum rather than be 
without it. I then knew nothing of healing through faith in 
Christ, as I now understand it, although I had all through mv 
ministry some of the most remarkable answers to pra3^er in the 
restoration to perfect health of those who were sick. Now in- 
stead of going to the Great Physician for the healing and cleans- 
ing of my bod}', T returned to Auburn, Kansas, and purchased 
the finest span of horses and other equipments, thinking to divert 
my mind from my diseases and thereby restore my health. My 
two daughters, Ellie and Rosa, and my son Willie were with me 
at my home. An almost idolized daughter, Mary, was ver}' hap- 
pily married and settled only four miles distant. In my lonely 
hours, I would leave my mansion in Auburn and ride up to my 
daughter's farm to receive the sunshine of her smiles which were- 
always ready for me. But sunshine was soon followed by dark 
clouds, for within three days my daughter and her babe were laid 
away in the same grave. Thus the hand of God was on me more 
heavily than ever. After months, I began floating about from 
place to place, climating through the State and visiting many 
warm friends, hoping thereby to assuage bitter grief and regain 
health. 

This mode of life and vain reliance upon earth's comforts was 
broken up in 1874, by another judgment from God, the grasshop- 
per plague, whereby the corn and all vegetables of our state were 
devoured. My fine carriage was laid aside, ray horses turned out 
to graze on the prairies or die. My family were placed under the 
care of a wealthy man. Deacon Isaac Baxter, whose crops were 
providentially saved, or they, too, would have suffered. I visited 
the afflicted to eat with them corn bread mixed with water. Fowls 
starved to death by thousands, while the swine and cattle and 
horses were driven off by thousands into other states. Many of 
the people, even, as far as they had means, left the State. 



74 



LIFE SKETCHES OF 



In this time of general distress, I received the following ap- 
pointment, endorsed by Governor Osborn, with the recommenda- 
tion of many of the best citizens of Kansas : — 

Solicitor's Certificate. 
KANSAS CENTRAL RELIEF COMMITTEE. 

Rooms of Kansas Central Relief Committee. 

ToPEKA, Jan. 20, 1875. 
Hon. Thomas A. Osborn, Governor of Kansas, 

Sir: — Being satisfied of the validity of the appointment of 
W. G. Raymond, of Shawnee County, as a solicitor of aid for the 
needy people of that County, and believing him to be capable and 
honest, we have to request that j'ou endorse said appointment. 

B}' order of the Committee. 

Henry King, Secretary. E. S. Stover, Chairman. 



Executive Department, State of Kansas. 

Topeka, Jan. 20, 1875. 
To whom it may concern : 

In accordance with the foregoing request of the Kansas Central 
Relief Committee, W. G. Raymond, of Shawnee County, is 
hereby recommended as a proper person to receive contributions 
of aid for the needy people of his County. 





Goveimor. 

By the Governor : 

Wm. H. Cavanaugh, 

Secretary of State. 



The Solicitor above named is provided with blank receipts, 
which parties contributing are requested to fill out with a list of 
articles contributed, and obtaining his signature thereto, forward 
such receipts to the Secretary of the Kansas Central Relief 
Committee, Topeka, Kansas. 



ELDER W. G. RAYMOND. 



75 




Legislative Department, State of Kansas. 

House of Representatives, 

ToPEKA, Jan. 21, 1875. 
Bev. W. G. Raymond : 

Sir: — I desire to ssij to you that I am glad you have been 
selected by the Governor to solicit aid. 

To many irresponsible persons are already engaged in that 
business, the result I fear will be disgrace to the State and men 
made to believe we are a State alike of beggars and swindlers. 
Your appointment will do something to remove or prevent the 
spread of such a sentiment. You have my best wishes. 

Yours truh', 

James F. Legate. 



Office of Thomas Carney & Co. 
Manufacturers & Wholesale Dealers in Boots & Shoes. 



No. 314 North Main St., St. Louis, Feb. 1, 1875. 

Hon. Joseph Brown : 

Dear Sir: — This will introduce to your favorable acquaintance 
W. G. Raymond, Esq., of Kansas, whom I have known a 
number of 3'ears, — besides he comes here appointed by the 
Governor and endorsed b}" a large number of the best people of 
Kansas as Agent to solicit aid for the needy of that State. 

I take pleasure in saying to you that Mr. Raymond's statements 
•can be relied upon and fullest confidence given to his reports. 



76 LIFE SKETCHES OF 

Be pleased to see him aod render such aid as you may deem 
proper and you will confer a favor upon many needy people. 
Very respectfully, your obedient servant, 




Ex-Governor of Kansas. 



Mayor's Office. 

Feb. 1, 1875. 
I consider the enclosed a perfectly reliable endorsement and 
would recommend Rev. Wm. G. Raymond to the kind attention 
of any public or private body. 

Very respectfully, 

Joseph Brown, 

Mayor of St. Louis. 



Hon. E. S. Stover: 

Dear Sir : — We would respectfull}^ recommend to 3'our commit-^ 
tee the Rev. W. G. Raymond as a suitable person to be appointed 
soliciting agent for the destitute of Shawnee and Osage Counties, 
satisfied of the necessity for this appointment we would earnestly 
urge your attention. 

F. R. Foster, Rep. 58th Dist. 
Wm. Sims, Senator 20th Dist. 
James Burgess, Rep. 56th Dist. 

F. M. P. Donnelly, Rep. 60th Dist. 
Jno. Martin, Rep. 57th Dist. 

E. B. Allen, Rep. 76th Dist. 

G. L. Brinkman, Rep. 97th Dist. 

C. L. HuBBS, Rep. 110th Dist. 

F. D. MiNDON, Rep. 52nd Dist., Ed. Laiorence Journal. 
P. P. Elder, Rep. 50th Dist., and Banker. 

D. J. Evans, Supt. of Public Schools of Shawnee Co.> 
Kan. 

John T. Morton, Judge Third Judicial District. 
A. B. Mann, Rep. 62nd Dist. 

Henry Booth, Chief Clerk House of Representatives. 
John Foster, Att}'., Great Bend, Kan. 



ELDER W. G. RAYMOND. 77 

County Clerk's Office. 
Shawnee County. 

ToPEKA, Kan., Jan. 20, 1875. 
Hon. E. S. Stoyer • 

Sir: — This is to certify that W. G. Raymond is now and has 
been for a number of years a citizen, house-holder and tax-payer 
of Shawnee County, and by his talents, position and extended 
acquaintance would make a successful canvasser for the destitute 
people of this State. 

P. I. Bonebrake, County Clerk. 

S. T. Wade, Sheriff. 

W. O. GiLPATRiCK, Under Sheriff. 

C. W. Jewell, Banker. 

T. J. Anderson, G. F. & T. Agt., K. M. R. R. 

W. H. FiTZPATRiCK, Reg. U. S. Land otfice, Topeka, Kan. 

G. W. Veale, President of Bank. 

T. K. Bradley, Ticket Agt. K. R. R., Topeka, Kan. 



Leavenworth, Kan., Jan. 27, 1875. 
To ivhom it concerns : 

The bearer. Rev. W. G. Raymond, is a member in good stand- 
ing in the Baptist Church in this city, and as such, is commended 
to the christian sympathy and confidence of churches during his 
absence. 

I. S. Kalloch, Pastor. 

The above was received in grasshopper times, and was my 
travelling letter. 



At St. Louis, not only was I endorsed as above, but also by 
twenty of the D.D.'s, among whom was Bishop Bowman, also 
by a committee of the Board of Trade. Through this channel 
many of the afflicted were relieved. Finding myself somewhat 
improved by this change of climate, I determined to visit the 
South, hoping thereby to perfect my recovery. While all phy- 
sicians agreed in saying that no medicine could reach and remove 
the fatal and malignant diseases in my body and head, yet I had 
the use of my limbs and arms to a considerable extent. Some of 
the time I would work, notwithstanding all the pain 1 had, until 
compelled to give up, for I was not only ambitious to live, but to 
be active. Some climate would flatter so that I would think for a 



78 LIFE SKETCHES OF 

time I should recover. So it was in Pennsylvania, and then in 
Washington and Virginia. At Clifton Springs I did considerable 
work and was very hopeful ; while in Michigan I thought I must 
die sure before 1 could get away. In Missouri I rallied and put 
in some valuable work for the Master. 

The summer of 1875 was spent in Washington and Virginia,, 
and my general health improved, but the local troubles were not 
removed. In much physical suffering I wrought very imperfectly 
some service for the Master in the village of Falls' Church, Va. 
To my shame, as a Christian minister, I sought recreation and 
diversion in worldly amusements, such as dominoes, croquet, and 
checkers, even horse shows at fairs, and to please friends, 
theatres, and fishing parties, etc. This, too, while under a sentence 
of death as regarded by the best physicians, and several times 
during this period brought to death's door. Oh, how stupid a 
Christian can be under a spell thrown over him by the devil ! 
How blind ! Medical friends and Christian friends as well as 
myself, thought these worldly pleasures needful to save me from 
depression of spirits. The sermons delivered at Falls' Church 
were both prepared and preached under the influence of opium 
and were considered among my best intellectual efforts. So pop- 
ular were they, that people from all denominations came to hear 
them. Let me say, however, souls were not saved by these efforts, 
and they were always followed by great physical and mental pros- 
tration and depression of spirits, and I would seek retirement in 
the woods and there plead with God to forgive and give me strength 
to break away from this bondage. 

The fall and winter of 1875, was spent with my brother at Clifton 
Springs. There I was in a better spiritual state. I held meet- 
ings in the Universalist Church, and in several Baptist churches 
around about, conducted revival services and some souls were saved. 
I was instrumental in the organization of a Baptist Church at. 
Clifton Springs of which I was pastor until my ill health compelled 
me to leave. Of the organization of this church the village paper 
gave the following report : 

A New Baptist Cuurch. 

Below we publish the minutes of a meeting, held on Monday 
evening, at Miss M. A. Balcom's, at which time a Baptist Church 
was constituted : 



ELDER W. G. RAYMOND. 7J> 

In accordance with a previous appointment made at the last 
Wednesday evening prayer meeting, Dec. 15, 1875, we, the- 
undersigned brothers and sisters, met at the house of sister M. A. 
Balcohn, on Monday evening, Dec. 20, 1875, at 7 o'clock, for the 
purpose of organizing a Baptist Church, to be known as the 
" First Baptist Church of Clifton Springs." 

The meeting was organized by calling the Rev. W. G. Raymond^ 
of Leavenworth, Kas., to the chair, and Brother Henry H. Archer 
as clerk. 

The following resolutions were then passed : 

JReso/ved, That we, the following-named persons, viz. : Wm.. 
G. Raymond, Henry H. Archer, Mar}' A. Balcom, Cornelia M. 
Balcom, Margaret Hanna, Mrs. S. H. Wells, Mrs. C. P. S. Kel- 
logg, do now organize ourselves into a Baptist Church, to be 
known as the "• First Baptist Church of Clifton Springs," of 
Ontario county. State of New York. 

Resolved^ That we receive the articles of Faith and Church 
Covenant as found in the Baptist Church manual, as written by 
J. Newton Brown, D. D., editor of the Encyclopedia of Religious- 
Knowledge, as our Articles of Faith and Practice. 

Resolved^ That we authorize said clerk to call a legal meeting 
for the purpose of electing trustees and perfecting a charter 
according to law, so that we shall be known legally. 

Resolved^ That we, whose names are above mentioned, will 
procure letters from the several churches with which we are con- 
nected, as soon as practicable, and hand them into this church. 

Resolved^ That we endorse and continue the Wednesday even- 
ing prayer meeting. 

Resolved^ That we have a covenant meeting once in four weeksy 
on the Friday before the third Sunda}- of each month, at 7 o'clock 
in the evening. 

Resolved^ That Brother H. H. Archer, clerk, be authorized to 
receive names on the above minutes, as charter members, until 
our next meeting of Friday evening before the third Sunday of 
January, 1875. Henry H. Archer, Clerk. 

The following subscription paper has been prepared and is to 
be circulated at once : 

We, the Baptist and citizens of Clifton Springs and vicinity, 
feeling the stern necessity of a house of worship in said village, to 
be located as central as practicable and built in size and architec- 
ture in keeping with the buildings of said village ; the said house 
to be built within two years from date, or the subscriptions to be 
null and void, and the slips or seats of said house to be free for 



-80 LIFE SKETCHES OF 

all, as long as held for church purposes, unless changed by the 
majority of said church and society ; agree to purchase a lot, and 
procure a good warrantee deed, on which to erect a Baptist 
Church, held in trust by their legal trustees for the use of the 
** First Baptist Church" and congregation of Clifton Springs, 
Ontario, Co., N. Y. 

We, the subscribers hereunto annexed, promise to pay the several 
sums set opposite our respective names to the trustees of the 
*' First Baptist Church of Clifton Springs," when they are legally 
authorized to receive it, or their order; one-third to be paid when 
a suitable lot can be procured ; one-third to be paid when the 
house is enclosed on said lot ; and the balance to be paid when 
the house is dedicated by said church. The said subscriptions to 
be held by H. H. Archer, clerk of said church, and to be handed 
over by him to the trustees when legally elected. 

While at the Springs I gave up, to a great extent, wordly amuse- 
ments and sought more earnestly comfort, though not health, in 
Christ. While there, Mrs. John Inskip was healed at Dr. Foster's 
Sanitarium by the Lord in answer to the doctor's prayer of faith. 
This made deep impression upon my mind — a medical man going 
ahead of ministers of the gospel in claiming the promises of God. 
I believe the doctor was a true Saint of God. 

Feeling that my health was again failing more rapidly, I left 
Clifton Springs and sought shelter in Michigan with my uncle, 
Mr. B. Gould, where I remained about two months. Shelter^ did 
I say? He was wealthy and treated me as a rich man until 
he found my means were gone and that I was dependent upon him 
for means to go to my brother's in Missouri. Then he took as pawn 
my valuable watch that I had carried all through the war. I did 
as directed in Luke vi : 30. I asked not for my watch again. It 
was a terrible blow to me and I hope that God forgave him. 

I spent a few weeks very pleasantly with my brother in Missouri 
:and received enough to defray my expenses back to Kansas. 
Arriving there, I was happily disappointed in finding both my 
horses alive. Soon I again started off for change of climate to 
regain health, instead of going to the Great Physician. With 
Rosa, my youngest daughter and my son Willie, I returned to 
Missouri and there spent a few months. Here again I got into a 
•current of worldl3^ mindedness and declined spiritually. 

Brother John and wife and my children and I went on a tour to 
Eastern Illinois to visit two sisters. We went down the Missis- 
sippi River. This trip was noted for wind, rain, floods, and thun- 



ELDER W. G. RAYMOND. 81 

der storms, and mosquitoes. On our return, crossing a stream in 
Missouri, the water was so deceiving that it was taking the car- 
riage right down the river, and only by a remarkable Providence 
did we all escape drowning. In crossing the Sheridan River 
great risk of life was caused by the abutments being washed 
awa}', and the flats being covered with three miles of lake. One 
of our teams became mired in the quicksands, and was not extri- 
cated until the next day. One freak of nature occurred at the 
house of Mr. Devoe. We had just returned from church when a 
terrific cyclone came up. The house was taken up as though it 
had been a feather (though it was very firmly spiked to the spiles), 
and carried some distance, and then let down without disturbing 
a dish on the table, which was set ready for supper. At this 
time, in addition to other infirmities, I was seized with chills and 
fever. After some time, we succeeded in breaking it with qui- 
nine only to drive it all through my system. Another affliction 
was added in the loss of one of my fine black horses, (worth from 
three to four hundred dollars) , which instantly dropped dead in 
his stall. 

After this I was again somewhat revived spiritually, and held 
some meetings with Bro. Graves, a Baptist minister. As the 
fruit of these meetings, we baptized between seventy and eighty. 
After that I held three or four protracted meetings with consider- 
able success. But ray health was so shattered that physicians 
said if I continued to preach, I should soon die. Yielding to their 
advice, I returned to Kansas, and commenced laboring moder- 
ately, on (Mr. Porter's) my son-in-law's farm. For about three 
3'ears my health improved, when again I went down, until I gave 
up all hope, and remained in that condition until the day I was 
healed. During this time I lost nearly all my spiritual enjoyment, 
and through not seeking counsel of the Lord, but acting according 
to the wisdom of this world, I made the greatest mistake of my 
life — a mistake which brought bitter sorrow and mortification, and 
brought me down into the very dust. My cup of sorrow was full 
to the brim. 

Leaving Kansas again, I took a wild goose chase to Bradford, 
Pa., where I engaged in business until my health failed so rapidly 
that I was compelled to relinquish it. My spiritual life had 
declined more rapidly than my physical. After a time, returning 
to Washington, I tried mercantile business, but this proved disas- 
6 



82 LIFE SKETCHES OF 

trous, financially, physically, and spiritually, so that in little over 
one year, by sickness, and giving credit to irresponsible parties, 
I lost everything, and was left in that great city where formerly I 
had enjoyed health, prosperity, popularity, and plenty of means, 
without a dollar, and physically and mentally a wreck. Indeed, 
my mental condition was terrible, amounting really to frenzy. 
One day I took my revolver, duly loaded, and started in the 
direction of the spot, where afterwards God mercifully healed me, 
intending to take my own life. On my way, my children in the 
West came before me, also my ministerial life of forty-five years, 
and the blood that would be upon my skircs, and the stain 
upon God's cause ; so, instead of going on, I turned aside into a 
little grove, and there fell down on my face and cried mightih' to 
God to deliver me from the devil. 

I have a chapter written covering this painful period, but waive 
its publication in this edition. 

Feeling too proud, under present circumstances, to renew 
acquaintance with old friends, I rented a room on third floor in a 
house on 14th street. Here, for five or six months, I boarded 
myself without a stove in my room, my diet being mostly bread 
and milk. I resolved to go down before God, by confession, 
prayer, and humiliation ; to give up the world, the flesh, and the 
devil. My reading was confined to the Bible and hymn book. I 
commenced reviewing my life, for the fortj^-five years I had been a 
professed Christian and minister of the gospel ; reviewed my dif- 
ferent pastorates, in my relations to them, almost family by family. 
When I discovered mistakes, or errors of judgments, I treated 
them as such, but sins, I called by their right name, and I 
implored God's forgiveness. God, however, seemed far away, and 
as an austere judge, whose ear for mercy I could not gain. I was 
under the law. I placed myself under the most searching pas- 
sages of Scripture, and prayed God to let them penetrate me. One 
of them was, " If the salt has lost its savor, it is henceforth good 
for nothing." This seemed applicable to me. I dwelt not for 
comfort, upon the more successful portions of my ministry, but 
rather upon the unfavorable and questionable. During these long 
months, I received no evidence that the hand of the Lord was lifted, 
but that he seemed to press more and more sorely upon me, until 
death, with its consequences, seemed rather to be desired than 
life. 




Plate No. 1. The place where Elder Raymond was Healed. 



ELDER W. G. RAYMOND. 83 

On the 8th of Oct. 1882, I made with my pencil a figure 
zero. As my eye unconsciously fell upon it, I said, "Yes, Lord, 
nothing from nothing, leaves nothing," and I felt there was nothing 
left for me but death, and fell over on the bed in utter despair, and 
there turned to and fro till morning, for sleep departed from me. 
I had no tears to shed, for the fountain of my tears was exhausted. 
I could not have shed a tear, had I learned that all of my children 
had died in one night. The next morning I left my room, resolved 
to go into the woods and remain there until I should either die or 
get a victory. Just what the needed victory was I did not com- 
prehend. I placed the key on the outside of the door, so any one 
could enter should I never return. I suppose I took an extra por- 
tion of opium, for in the course of two or three hours, I reached 
the woods, just north of the cit3^ Kneeling in several different 
places, I would hear voices, and so go farther into the woods, until 
I came to a lonely spot, in a beautiful grove of young trees, where 
something seemed to say, "This is the place." I removed my 
coat, hat, and collar, and laid down my umbrella, cane, and fan 
by a stump, placing my watch on the ground. It was a beautiful 
warm day. Just below was a beautiful stream of water. The 
birds were singing joyfully, but I was " sorrowful even unto death." 
I threw myself upon the ground, and cried mightily unto the Lord 
to have merc^^ upon me. I thought that being removed from the 
noise of the city, I might possibly gain the ear of God, but I cried 
until perfectly exhausted, and in despair, when a voice spoke : 
"You want to be forgiven of all 3^our sins and irregularities, for over 
forty-five years, and you are not willing to forgive your enemies." 
I raised my head and looked around to see who had spoken, won- 
dering who knew I had not forgiven my enemies. I arose. 
Seeing no one, I was satisfied that the voice was not human, and 
I answered, " Lord, they haven't asked my forgiveness, or shown 
any signs that they are sorry." There was no answer. It was 
now about 11 o'clock, a. m. The sun was shining brightly ; I was 
standing up, facing the east. Looking to my right, I saw the cross 
and Jesus nailed to it, his face towards the east, and his left side 
towards me. I saw a portion of his back, where it had been 
lacerated, and was now bleeding. There, too, I saw the crown of 
thorns upon his head, pressed upon those temples, from which the 
blood was dropping, while those who had nailed him to the cross 
looked exultant, and a few gathered there were sorrowful and weep- 



'84 LIFE SKETCHES OF 

ing. Right in the midst of this, I heard Jesus saying " Father, 
forgive them for they know not what they do," and the vision 
vanished. Again the voice spoke saying, "Did Jesus wait until 
He saw signs of repentance, or until they asked His forgiveness? " 
I had in my hand Prof. Kendrick's version of the New Testament, 
as seen in the plate. The voice said, " Read the 13th chapter of 
1st Oor." I read, charity there, being rendered love. I saw 
more clearly than ever before that underlying the Christian relig- 
ion w&s love. I then undertook the task of forgiving my enemies, 
commencing with Dea. Henry Fox of Kansas. We had been firm 
friends, and the devil had made us enemies. I thought if I could 
not forgive him, it was useless to tr}^ further. After several 
unsuccessful efforts, the old man revolted, and I was being 
defeated. Just then I looked up and said, "Lord, Jesus, help 
me, and I will forgive him." Jesus did help, and I did forgive, and 
from that time, placed him with my children, and prayed for him 
in connection with them. Now, one, after another, as they were 
presented to my mind, were readily forgiven. T was standing as 
-erect as my infirmities would admit, facing the east. As I was 
thus forgiving, I felt a power come upon my head, which seemed 
to pass right through me, so thorough was I being dissected in 
every part of my body, painful while it was passing, so I thought 
it might be death. Instead of that, my shoulders involuntarily 
went back, my chest filled out, as when in health, and new life was 
felt all through my body. As I looked down at my watch, on the 
ground, it was high twelve. I brought my right foot down, and 
seemed to be standing on a rock. I said, " Thank God ! I stand 
once more erect as a man." The next thought that came was, " I 
am clean," and the second, " I am healed ! " I felt of parts 
of my body, that had been diseased and sore. All pain and 
soreness was gone. I walked two or three rods, back and forth, 
and then leaped for joy, and praised the Lord. The path, subse- 
quently, became a well beaten one, as I frequently resorted thither, 
and walked and talked with Jesus. I there built an altar of stone, 
to mark the spot, where Jesus had so graciously healed and cleansed 
me. Ever since that time, I have claimed the regeneration of my 
body. The Lord removed from me all malice, all lust, and has 
thus far kept me by His power. The Lord led me to mark four 
trees, as witnesses of the covenant then made between us. The 
hieroglyphics on those trees record the number of visits I have 




Plate No. 2. Looking to the East. 



ELDER W. G. RAYMOND. 85' 

made there. The third visit I made, the Lord asked me what 
name I gave the place. I had thought about a name. I said, 
"Lord, Mt. Tabor?" "No." "Mt. Carmel? " "No." " Mt. 
Moriah?" "No." " Mt. Pisgah?" "No." I paused to see 
what the Lord would say. He said, " This is Beulah Land.'' I 
answered, " Yes, Lord, this is Border Land," and I have always 
felt, that the Lord handed that name right down to me. After I 
went to my room, I opened to Isa. 62d. In the 4th verse is the 
word Beulah Land. 

The following hymn, bearing this title, has ever since been ta 
me the most precious : 

BEULAH LAND. 

I've reached the land of corn and wine, 
And all its riches freely mine ; 
Here shines undimmed one blissful day, 
For all my night has passed away. 

CHORUS. 

Beulah land, sweet Beulah land, 
As on the highest mount I stand, 

1 look away across the sea, 

Where mansions are prepared for me, 
And view the shining glory shore, 
My heaven, my home for evermore. 

The Saviour comes and walks with me, 
And sweet communion here have we : 
He gently leads me with His hand, 
For this is heaven's border land. 

A sweet purfume upon the breeze 
Is borne from ever vernal trees. 
And flowers that never fading grow 
Where streams of life forever flow. 

The Zephyrs seem to float to me. 
Sweet sounds of heaven's melody. 
As angels with the white-robed throng, 
Join in the sweet redemption song. 

Sometimes when I go to that spot, I take my shoes from off my 
feet, feeling it to be holy ground, and pouring oil upon the altar 
in the name of the Lord. Near the stream is a large rock which- 
I call the Rock of Ages, on which I usually sing a verse or two of 



86 LIFE SKETCHES OF 

" Rock of Ages Cleft for Me." I covet to own that one spot of 
land and have often asked my Father to give it to me for a pos- 
session. Just below the rock is a fount where I bathe and in 
which I have baptized some in the name of the Father, Son and 
Holy Ghost. ^ 

One other instance in connection with my healing and restored 
communion with God. I had previously believed in and 
preached a spiritual but not a literal and personal reign of Christ. 
I believed that He would reign king of nations, that is, that nations 
should be spiritually in subjection to him as saints now are and 
quoted frequently the passage, " A nation shall be born in a d&j" 
and took the passage in Ps, ii : 8, to prove that the world would 
be converted, but neglected those passages relating directly to 
his second coming. 

Before I left the woods after my healing, I went down before 
the Lord and asked him to sh©w me the truth regarding his per- 
sonal coming, and he did by the Holy Ghost remove my former 
theory, and led me into the truth, that as Christ had come the 
first time bearing our sins He would come " the second time 
without sin unto salvation ; " that as the first was a literal, per- 
sonal coming, so the second would be. Then going to my room, 
I went down on my knees and inquired of the Lord whether 
Christ's coming was near at hand and continued in reading Mev- 
elations until about twelve o'clock that night, and from that hour 
the seal of that book was removed, and I have ever since firmly 
believed that I " shall tarry till he come," and I also have believed 
and do still that he will come about twelve o'clock at night, and 
frequently at that time I look quite a while at the window to see 
if I can discern any signs of His coming. My lamp has all the 
time been trimmed and burning and oil in my vessel with my lamp 
and when the cry is heard, " Behold, the Bridegroom cometh, Go 
ye out to meet Him," I fully expect to meet Him with joy. 

While thus waiting. His dail}' message to me is, " Occupy till I 
come." So I am more anxious to have my work done, and well 
done than anything else, that I may hear the welcome plaudit, 
" Well done thou good and faithful servant, enter thou into the 
joy of thy Lord." 

My Bible class of 3'oung ladies were nearly all saved. I at 
once introduced into my teaching healing for the body, as well as 
for the soul, through faith in Christ. The first lady I met who 



ELDER W. G. RAYMOND. 87 

belieyed this doctrine was Mrs. Dr. Duncan, a lady highly intel- 
lectual and of eminent piety who had been wonderfully raised up 
though not healed. She was the first I anointed for healing in 
the name of the Lord Jesus. She was healed and arose from her 
bed and wanted to go and take charge of her mission at the depot, 
but her husband, a noted "physician, protested against it, and she 
was held back from acting her faith. Still, for several months, 
she positively claimed her healing which gave me great encour- 
agement. In moving, there came a reaction, and one da}" the 
doctor thought she would die before night and started for Drs. 
Clift and Wolf who professed at that time to be in the faith. 
Just at that time, 1 was led by the spirit to visit the famil}'^, not 
having heard anything of her illness. Upon entering the room, she 
seemed to be dying. Her colored servant was watching over her, 
expecting her to depart any minute. I knelt by the bed and took 
her by the hand, silently asking Jesus to raise her up. She then 
revived and drew her hands over her lips. Opening her eyes she 
recognized me. I then offered vocal prayer. She sat up in the 
bed as well or better than I had seen her at an}^ time before, and 
was conversing freely when her husband and Bro. Wolf entered. 
The Dr. seemed dumbfounded and said, " Elder, who sent for 
you?" I answered, "The Lord sent me here." He said, "I 
expected my wife would be dead when I came." We all rejoiced 
together and gave God the glory. One day some months after 
that I was again led there, but this time with a special message 
of death instead of life, from the Lord. I said to her, " Sister 
D. the Lord shows me clearly that you are to take the short 
course." She replied, "Oh, no, Bro. R., I think the Lord has 
shown me differentlj'. I said, " Well, I hope not, my sister, for 
I should hate to lose your Christian counsel and association." 
But within a few da^'s, she triumphantly passed awa3^ 

I shall never forget how I felt when she sent for me to come 
and anoint her with oil, and pray for her, for I was even then 
ignorant of the teachings of the Word of God, as thousands in the 
ministry now are. Yet, I should have felt hurt, had any one told 
me I was thus ignorant, for I professed to be a Bible student. 
Yet my faith was simple, and untrammeled by theories^ such as 
divide and weaken the power of the faith people. 

During that year, that is, the first year after my healing, and 
while connected with the 14th Street Baptist Church, I labored in 



88 LIFE SKETCHES OF 

Falls Church, Va., where I had formerly been pastor, and at 
Tinle3'town, near Georgetown, with Rev. John Teasdale. Here, 
we had a glorious revival of religion. I was also at Rockville, 
Md., and for awhile supplied the Baptist Church at Germantown, 
Md., where, June 12th, 1884, I baptized two ladies. Miss Rix, and 
Mrs. Mary Perry, of Washington, who afterwards became a 
wonderful power through the Holy Ghost, in healing the sick, and 
leading souls to Christ. She labored more or less with me for 
about three years, first in Washington, then in Baltimore, and 
down the Eastern shore, and in Delaware. Since this time, she 
has labored with great success, in several Southern States. 

I also held at Queenstown Baptist Church two series, of revival 
meetings. At the first, there were quite a number saved, and I 
think, eleven baptized ; at the second, about fort}' saved, twenty- 
eight of whom Bro. Teasdale and I baptized in one da3\ 

The last field of labor, in direct connection with the Baptists, as a 
denomination, was the Gay Street Baptist Church, Georgetown, D.C. 
To this church. Dr. Lodge had previously been called. He wished 
me to again assist him in his supply pastorate. So I took my 
letter from the 14th Street Baptist Church, and joined the Gay 
Street Church. For over a year, I think, he considered me as 
Assistant Pastor, or right hand man, for all kinds of church work, 
or Sabbath school, and Bible work. A glorious work of grace was 
done in the salvation of forty or more souls, most of whom Dr. L. 
baptized. During these two years, my church record, of which has 
been given above, I was called here and there throughout the city 
of Washington and considerable of the surrounding countr}'^, to 
pray for and anoint the sick, according to James v: 16-18. 
Hundreds were raised up, a large number were miraculously and 
many perfectly healed. Mrs. Ball, near Georgetown, was healed 
of insanity, by laying on of hands and prayer. She was also 
gloriously saved, and has since been a brilliant Christian. An- 
other case, very near Georgetown, a Mr. Chapel. He was seized 
with spinal convulsions, and was so violent when these convulsions 
came upon him, that the lives of his family were in jeopardy, and 
it would require three or four strong men to control him. He 
struck at the Dr. with such force, that the Dr. said if he had hit 
his neck, he would have killed him. He broke his heavy bedstead, 
and other furniture, and acted much like the man in the tombs. 
Mark v: 1-10. The Dr. said no such case had ever been known 



ELDER W. G. RAYMOND. 8^' 

to recover. I was taken to see him. He received us rather 
coolly at first, but after reading the Scripture on the subject of 
healing, and telling him of several cases healed, I asked if my 
talking tired him. He said, "No, Bro. R., I feel very much 
rested." We then prayed for him, anointing him with oil, and 
laying on hands in the name of Jesus, and in this name, I cast 
the devils out of him. So far as my knowledge goes, he never 
had another spasm, and the f amity was greatly blessed and 
comforted. 

Another case. The name I cannot recall, but she was a clerk 
in one of the government departments at Washington. She had' 
been blind for eighteen months, if my memory serves me rightly, 
wearing glasses and two thicknesses of veil, and had to keep 
herself in a dark room. She came to the hall on H street, near 
7th street, Washington, where I was then laboring for the afflicted 
and leading souls to Christ. We anointed and prayed for her, 
without any apparent immediate result. As we were rising from 
our knees, the gift of healing came upon me and I said to her,. 
" My sister, you are healed now.'' Looking up to the light, she 
replied, " I know it." She remained during the meeting without 
any protection to her eyes, returned home without any, and the 
next day returned to her office work and wrote all day. The next 
night she came to the meeting and holding out her glasses to me, 
said, " I present these to you, as a memento of what the Lord has 
done for my eyes." Those glasses I have yet. 

In the spring of 1885, I felt that the Lord drew me out of 
denominational work into the faith work entirely. Up to this 
time was in good and regular standing in Gay Street Baptist 
Church, attended regularly the pra3^er meetings in which I was 
always active and ready for dut}^ and the Sunday services, and 
paid my regular dues, until the spring of 1885. Then I asked the 
privilege of holding some faith meetings in the church. One of 
the deacons and some of the members, were in favor of it, and I 
requested them to speak to Dr. Lodge about it, which they did, 
and he thought it would not be best. Therefore, " immediately, I 
conferred not with flesh and blood," but in obedience to the Lord, 
hired the hall on H street, Washington, D. C, previously referred 
to. Here for four months I labored, generally from 9 o'clock, 
A. M., to 12 o'clock at night, except as I visited those too- 
sick to come to the hall. I had no salar3^ or any income,. 



^0 LIFE SKETCHES OF 

save the freewill offerings of the people (no collections were 
taken up) with which I paid the rent and met other expenses. 
I had the satisfaction of knowing that many in the city and 
out of the city, even in various parts of the United States, 
were there healed, cleansed, and saved through the virtue and 
blood of Christ. Sister Mary Perry was a very efficient worker 
with me during these months, and the Lord will certainly reward 
her for her untiring, self-sacrificing labors in behalf of the afflicted 
and unsaved. Saints of God, from nearly all the denomina- 
tions, including several ministers, labored harmoniously with us. 
I might mention some families, by name, who contributed much 
to the work and to m}' comfort, during those months and sub- 
sequently. Simon Main, on 14th street, gave me a home for two 
years. It is a satisfaction to remember that the dear Lord in 
return did bestow upon them some great spiritual and physical 
blessings. At one time Mrs. Main had been two days and nights 
in a very critical condition. She had scrofula and erysipelas 
•combined, lumps as large as hickory nuts, came all over her head ; 
one eye had swollen until closed, and the other nearly so, and the 
disease began to penetrate from the ear into the head. I anointed 
her head with oil, and laid on hands in the name of Jesus, and she 
was almost immediatelj' healed. This was some four j-ears ago, 
and I think she has never suffered from that disease since. 

Bro. Salter supplied some furniture, bestowed much hospitality, 
and man}'' special favors. From the Johnson family, we received 
man}' offerings for the work, besides many kindnesses and marked 
hospitality in their home. With gratitude and thanksgiving, I 
remember the Teasdale family for their many acts of kindness, 
words of encouragement, and deeds of Christian charity. May 
the rich blessings of Almighty God rest upon Bro. John Teasdale 
in his gospel ministry ! The thoughts of the sainted departed 
ones bring up many delighful recollections of their kind, thought- 
ful ministry, to usward. The kindness of the Dyer family, not 
only extended through this particular time of trial, but back over 
a period of more, than thirty years. •' I was a stranger" and 
they "took me in," "sick" and they received me for months 
into their house, and sought in every possible way to Cheer and 
•comfort me. This was when I was an invalid. I mention also 
with pleasure. Prof. Messer, John Piles, Dr. Foster, Dr. Hogan, 
Dr. Lodge, Dr. Green, the Martin and Bingham families, and 



ELDER W. G. RAYMOND. 91 

Mrs. Darling and daughter. All these were more or less in sj-m- 
pathy with my work, but time and space prevents me from 
mentioning many others who endeared themselves to me in 
Washington. 

I have already reviewed in part over three 3'ears subsequent to 
my healing. During this time we put in several months at 
intervals in Baltimore, Md., commencing in the Stagmeyer 
family, and in the Lee family, and then in the Ann street 
mission, M. E. Church, where many were miraculously healed ; 
the blind were made to see, the lame to walk and leap for joy, 
and epileptics delivered from evil spirits and perfectly restored, 
and a large number of souls saved, as the fruits of which the 
■Grace Baptist Church received quite an addition, though the 
pastor fought the work of healing desperately. This church we 
•could have had longer, but we were compelled to leave it, on 
account of the pressure of those who wanted to hear the full 
gospel, as hundreds had to retire, without being able to get stand- 
ing room. This led me to seek a larger house, and Mt. Pisgah 
Tabernacle was opened to me without mone}^ and without price. 
That large house was thronged and packed every night, for about 
a month. Even here, some nights, hundreds would go away 
unable to get in. Some nights we had as many as sixt}' or 
seventy forward for healing. Hear the deaf were made to hear, 
the dumb to speak. One man had been thirty 3'ears deaf and 
dumb, not hearing a sound, the deafness, caused by scarlet fever 
when a small child, came forward and was anointed with oil in 
the name of the Lord. I placed my fingers in his ears, and in the 
name of the Father, Son and Holy Ghost, commanded his ears to 
open. They were opened in a moment. I asked, " Can 3'ou hear 
me?" He nodded his head and said, " Yah, yah ! " I asked him 
to say the Lord's Pra3'er, but he could not. I then anointed his 
tongue, in the name of the Lord, after which he could speak the 
Lord's Prayer distinctly, so that all could hear, and understand. I 
then whispered to him, "Do you hear me?" Rising up, and 
facing the congregation, many of whom knew him, he said, "I 
can hear distinct^," speaking as distinctly as though his tongue 
had never been dumb. A number of persons came on to the 
platform and conversed with him in an undertone, to satisf}^ them- 
selves that he was healed. That very night, what was called 
" The boneless child," was presented for healing — a child four or 



92 LIFE SKETCHES OF 

five years old. I held the child up before the congregation, and 
showed them that the limbs were as limp as a rag. The child 
had never stood on his feet. Sister Perry anointed the child, 
and Sister Robertson laid on hands in the name of Jesus and 
offered a short prayer. They passed to another child, I think 
older, that had never walked, and commenced to anoint it, when 
this first child slid off from its mother's lap, and began to walk. 
The congregation sprang to their feet, cr^'ing out, '' See there ! 
See there ! That child is walking ! " Sister Perry took the child 
and stood it on the desk, and it stood there before the people from 
three to five minutes. In a few minutes the second child was 
walking. One colored woman was healed of blindness before we got 
to her, and she cried out, " The good Lord has healed me ! " As 
she continued praising God, said, "I thank you, Massa Jesus, 
for opening my eyes," and all the congregation sung the Dox- 
olog}^ The last case that night, but not the least, I will note. It 
was nearly twelve o'clock. A lady had been sitting quietly, nearly 
all the evening, in one corner, I had just dismissed the congre- 
gation for the third time, and they were starting to leave, when 
this lady beckoned Sister Perr}^ to her, and whispering said, 
" Can't you attend to my case, to-night? I have come one hun- 
dred and sixty miles to be cured of the consumption." Eight 
different phj^sicians had doctored her, and she was given up to 
die. The last physician that sounded her lungs, said, "If he 
could get his hand in there, he could take out the rotten matter 
by the handful." Sister Perry reported the case to me, and I to 
the congregation. They all took their seats again. Sister Perry 
anointed her, and, with Sister Robertson, laid hands on her 
lungs, and offered a short prayer, and she was instantlj' healed. 
This was seven years ago, and she is still a healed woman. I 
have heard her speak to thousands of people. This lady is Mrs. 
Owens of Sliarptown, Md. The work of healing and salvation 
went on every night — of course some nights more markedly than 
others. As the pressure was so great, we did not generally take 
even the names of people, so I give the cases just as they are pre- 
sented in the Scripture, for you will notice there that a name is 
seldom given, but only the place where, directly through Christ 
himself, or the Apostles under Christ, the diseased were healed 
and the devils cast out. Furthermore, I had but one reliable, 
permanent worker. Sister Mary Perry, and she was taxed to the 



ELDER W. G. RAYMOND. 93 

utmost of her strength. Some days we did not take time for 
meals. It was in this meeting that Bro. Geo. McDorman, of 
Deals Island, Md., was powerfully convicted and gloriously saved. 
He had spent most his life on the waters. 

As the Tabernacle had been previously engaged for temperance 
meetings, we were now pressed by the people in the vicinity of 
Ann street mission to return there. The officials said if we would 
only pay the land rent, we could have the church for an unlimited 
time, and the meetings were successfully continued for three 
weeks. About this time a man came in, claiming to hail from 
Tennessee, by the name of Howard, a man of more than ordinary 
address, a fine looking man, and of considerable oratorical ability, 
but still of greater ability to deceive. He came very near 
deceiving the '' elect." I saw plainly that the people wanted 
him, but there always seemed to be a screen between him 
and me. As I left Baltimore for Washington, he assumed the 
work but the very next Sunday was rejected from the house, yet 
continued to operate on my field until, as I have been informed he 
had raised some six or seven hundred dollars. I cannot say how 
much a certain sister, who was carried away with his dissimulations 
and labored with him received, though it is believed she got quite 
a percentage. As the facts came to light, it can be proven that 
one night, at least, he had to be helped into his boarding house at 
a late hour, he was so intoxicated. While he was in Philadelphia 
spending, as we believe, dishonorably, this money instead of 
purchasing a tent, as he had held out to the people that he would 
do, I was moved to pray that God would lay his hand on him, 
Sister Perry joining me in the prayer. In two or three da3^s we 
heard from him, that he had come very near being crushed to 
•death. Where he is now floating God only knows. 

A number of times, we have visited the Eastern Shore, Md., 
Deals Newmarket, Sharptown, Vienna, Crotcher's Ferry, Portville, 
Island, Md., Laurell, and several other places in Delaware. Dur- 
ing my first visit on the Eastern Shore, there were over one hundred 
and fifty conversions, and many healed. At our second visit, in 
■eighteen days, I baptized sixty-five, and many souls were saved. At 
Deals Island, Eastern Shore, Md., quite a number were saved, and 
I baptized five ; the first of whom was Bro. Geo. McDorman. I 
was moved to ordain him to the work of the ministry. This 
brother covenanted to give the Lord all he might make on Mon- 



94 LIFE SKETCHES OF 

days. As he owns quite a number of vessels, I hope he will be- 
true to his word. 

We now return to Baltimore and find the field in a demoralized 
and confused condition, on account of Howard and others. Sister 
Stagmeyer said I could never again get a congregation in Balti- 
more. I hadn't money, or a place to stop, and the Lord directed 
me to Bro. Abbiton, Wolf street, who said that I could have a 
bed and breakfast if I could eat his cooking, as his wife was away 
on a visit, which offer was gladlj?- accepted. I procured a hall over 
Cook's store, Baltimore street, but after a short time I found that 
the locality was not right, and that I wouldn't be able to keep up 
the expense. In visiting through the city, I found a hall in South 
Baltimore, which I supposed I engaged for six months or a year. 
We soon learned that there were objections raised to the particular 
kind of work done in our meetings, as healing the sick and casting 
out devils, so I gave up that hall. A man b}' the name of Hill, 
who had been wonderfully touched, though not saved in the meet- 
ings, opened his parlors on Charles street, near Henrietta street, 
whereby himself and entire family were saved. Mr. March, a 
wealthy man hearing that we had to leave the hall, sent an invita- 
tion, through his daughters, to come and occupy his double par- 
lors, which we were more than glad to accept. He also gave room 
and board to Sisters Perr}^ and Mark, who labored in the meet- 
ings. The Holy Ghost came down in wonderful power, and marked 
cases of healing occurred every night, and many souls were saved. 
This continued for several weeks. While this meeting was in 
progress, I was several times invited afternoons into the large 
Colored M. E. Church just opposite. In this church the first after- 
noon, fifty presented themselves for healing, the Pastor looking 
on attentively. He said, after the meeting, " I think there were 
thirt}^ instantaneously healed." The second day upwards of sixty 
presented themselves as subjects of prayer, and after the meeting 
the pastor said, " I believe there were thirt3'-one instantly healed." 
Two of the number were sisters who were born deaf and dumb, 
one perhaps twenty-one or two years old, and the other younger. 
After anointing and prayer they could hear as readily as an}' in 
the congregation. I anointed their tongues, offering a short prayer, 
and they said the Lord's prayer as readily and distinctly as any 
one could. This was witnessed by a large congregation, also by 
a Baptist minister, Mr. Norton, and his wife. I went from this 



ELDER W. G. RAYMOND. 95" 

meeting to Charles Street M. E. Church where I continued a number 
of weeks. The Lord worked mightily until the Official Board got 
disturbed. Here Bro. Burke was healed and afterwards saved. 
He is now laboring with considerable success in the Faith Work 
in Baltimore. We allow him to give his own experience below : 

Fayette St., near North Strieker, Baltimore, Md. 

I do praise the Lord this day for the great blessing which He 
has bestowed upon me. It seems a miracle, indeed, that I am a 
redeemed man, so far I once was from the dear Saviour. Oh,, 
how wretched was I ! The devil had captured his victim, and as 
the days, weeks and months rolled on, viler and viler did I 
become. But thanks be unto God for the unceasing prayers 
offered b}' father and mother, whose hearts were well nigh crushed 
with grief on account of their prodigal son. Time after time, the 
horrors of death and hell would rise before me and terrors get hold 
of me until my brain would almost reel ; then again the Saviour 
sought to draw me by cords of love, but I resisted the blessing 
He wanted to bestow upon me, the devil controlled me, and the 
conflict continued. At last my parents prayed that if I could be 
saved in no other way, the Lord would lay me on the bed of afflic-^ 
tion. I did not know they prayed thus, at the time. I worked in 
a rolling mill in Wilmington, Del., and was the ringleader in all 
mischief — was hearty and strong, and Satan would tell me I was 
in my prime and should not allow any thought of the future to 
press upon my mind. 

The first Sunday in May, 1883, one of my partners came in and 
talked awhile ; then proposed that we should go out on New Cas- 
tle Avenue. We went out about two miles and returned feeling 
perfectly well, and was thinking how much work we would turn off 
the next day, when, as I attempted to rise from my seat, suddenly 
dreadful pains seized me and filled my whole frame. Now,, 
indeed, the powerful hand of God, was laid upon me. I was com- 
pelled to retire, and from that time my sufferings were intense ^ 
night and day my moans were heard. My joints became greatly 
swollen and my fever raged high. Liniment after liniment was 
tried, some of it so poisonous and strong that it would burn the 
skin from the hands of those who applied it to my joints. At 
length after a long siege of this violent pain, it changed to a dull 
pain and then I could get around a little with the use of a cane.. 



'96 LIFE SKETCHES OF 

Various physicians were tried, all failing to understand or to help 
my case, until I went bj^ advice to Dr. Stubbs, of Wilmington, 
Del. He seemed to read my case correctly, said the disease had 
turned to blood poison, but his medicine availed me nothing. 
Then I went to the Penn. Hospital in Philadelphia. There, was 
told at first that harder cases than mine had been cured, so I was 
greatly encouraged but for a short time onl}^ for soon the word 
*' Incurable " went like a dagger to my heart. Prof. Agnew, 
1616 Chestnut St., Philadelphia, examined me and said m}^ disease 
was rheumatism and effusion of the knee joint, and that he had 
never seen a case of that kind cured, still he would do all he could 
and tr}' one method. They cut my left knee and pumped out the 
effusion which appeared like ro3'al glue and then bandaged it, tell- 
ing me the bandage was to be kept on eight days. Then if the 
joint filled again, it could not be cured. It did so. 

After that I went to Baltimore to the Lombard and Green Sts. 
Dispensary and was under the treatment of Prof. Tiffney, I 
think, about two months. His medicine at first drove the effusion 
down into the ankle, but it returned again to the knee, and again 
my case was pronounced hopeless. He had also tried splints and 
plaster of Paris. I next tried the Union Prot. Infirmary for about 
three months under Dr. Forcett, and there the medicine very 
nearly killed me, and when I left I could not lift my left leg, but 
had to drag it along. I have had fly blisters on my knees for ten 
and eleven hours at a time until dreadful looking blisters would 
hang down on each side. One doctor in Wilmington injected car- 
bolic acid into my knee which was intended to burn up the sac 
and the effusion that had collected there. No one can imagine the 
severity of suffering this caused. 

After I had been given up by the doctors and had returned 
home, the devil told me, as I could not be cured and could never 
be of an}^ good to myself or anybody else, I had better put an end 
to my existence ; that I was a condemned man and would go to 
hell anyway, and there was no use being here in misery any 
longer. I asked my wife for a razor, intending to take my life, 
but she discerned the demon in my countenance and hid the razor. 
After this I became worse again and was very cross and ill- 
natured ; nothing seemed right, and every one became contrary 
^nd hateful in my e3'es, but it was Satan in me all the time. 

At this time there was talk about a little band called the Faith 
Healers, and wife and others asked me to go and let them pray 



ELDER W. G. RAYMOND. 97 

for me. I said, *' Not much, if I know it. I have been hum- 
bugged enough, so don't talk to me about your faith healers or 
anything else." " Then," said my wife, " send for some Christian 
to pray for you." I answered, " There is no use. I know I have 
committed the unpardonable sin and the Bible says in that case 
one need not pray for you." But my friends kept at me to go to 
the faith healers. At last, thinking they would not let me rest, 
until I should go, I went just to get rid of their talk. They were 
holding meetings in the Olive Branch Church, Charles St. The 
church was crowded as wife and I entered, and we took a seat 
about half-way down. A child was brought forward for prayer 
that had the spinal disease. It was so deformed that its head was 
almost down to its knees. Sister Perry one of the leaders said, 
" I believe this little child will be healed to-night," and I said to 
myself, "Yes, and I believe you are a liar, for anybody knows that 
child, afflicted as it is, cannot be healed to-night." They anoint- 
ed it with oil in the name of the Lord, Elder Raymond placing 
his hand on the spine and to my astonishment it rose right up, 
was perfectly healed and walked all around. Then I said, " Hiat 
is of God," and I started forward with canes in hand. I could not 
get up or go forward the least without the canes, but would fall if 
they slipped. Elder Raymond anointed me with oil and offered a 
short prayer. I at once felt a change for the better. The pain and 
soreness was gone, also the stiffness. Elder Raymond then said, 
*' Arise, my brother, in the name of Jesus and give God the glory, 
for you are a healed man." I arose without the canes. He then 
said, " Step over the altar railing in the name of the Lord." I 
thought to myself, " You look like a man of good sense, but you 
must be a fool," but I said nothing, but made the effort to obey, 
and raised my foot about four inches. Again he bade me the 
same way, and I raised my foot about six inches. Again the 
Elder said, " Now believe Jesus fully for it, if you never have 
before," and then turned away from me to some other one. I 
said to myself, " In the name of Jesus I shall go over that altar 
railing, even if I fall over," and praise the dear Saviour, I went 
over without stumbling, as if some one had lifted me over. 
Praise the Lord that he can heal when all earthly skill fails. 
Though healed, I was not saved. Six weeks after this, I was in 
the meeting one night and Elder Raymond preached a very cut- 
ting sermon, exactly suited to my case. I went home and tried 
7 



98 LIFE SKETCHES OF 

to throw off the convictions it produced, but could not. At last, I 
felt I must die if not saved. I vrrestled mightil}^ with the Lord 
in prayer, but found no relief. At last the Holy Spirit seemed to 
say, " Stop a minute." I did. The Lord spoke to me. " You 
expect me to forgive your sins and you will not forgive your ene- 
mies — one man in particular, towards whom 3'ou have murder in 
your heart." I said, '^ Yes, Lord, I forgive them all and can pray 
for them." Then the dear Saviour gloriously saved me, but very 
soon the devil tried to make me believe that the work was not 
complete. Then the Lord gave me a vision in the night — a vis- 
ion of himself, the light from whose face filled my room. He 
took me by the hand and said, " Your countenance shall be 
changed. I was then immersed in the river, and ordained by Elder 
Raymond. " A thrill of joy went through my whole being, and 
praise his holy name, not only my countenance but my whole 
nature was changed. I was a " new creature." He also bestowed 
upon me some of the gifts of the Spirit — the '* gift of faith,* 
the " gift of healing," and of '' casting out devils," and " discern- 
ing of spirits," in the exercise of which I have seen those near 
death raised up, the deaf made to hear, the dumb to speak, and 
the blind to see, to the glory of his name. 

Elder John A. Burke. 
August 16, 1888. 



Desckiption of Plates No. 1 and No. 2. 

In No. 1, I stand by the altar built with my own hands, in the name of 
the Lord, shortly after I was healed, in October, 1883, to mark the spot. I 
had in my hand Prof. Kendrick's version of the New Testament, my large 
cane and large umbrella and large fan, my hat and coat are by a stump at 
my right. My right hand rests upon one of the witness trees mentioned in 
the narrative, which trees are marked with a star. The tree marked with a 
cross is the one near where I saw Jesus on the cross. The voice seemed to 
come from one close to me, and was heard distinctly. When I lay on my 
face, I was a few paces back of where I stand in the picture. As I arose, I 
stepped forward. The Lord spoke audibly to me four times that day, and I 
saw Jesus as plainly as I ever saw any human person. Later it came to me 
while in prayer, that my body, when the refiner's fire went through it, was 
like the burning bush which Moses saw, Ex. iii : 1-6. Moses wondered that 
the bush was not consumed, so I was astonished to find that instead of its 




Plate No. 3. The Rock of Ages, near Beulah Land. 



ELDER W. G. RAYMOND. 9^ 

being death going on in my body, it proved to be life, health, and strength, 
both physical and spiritual, through the Holy Ghost. This work of refining: 
and regeneration of my body, was done in a moment, and the same power 
that wrought the wonderful change, has kept me the past eight years, in per- 
fect health and strength, without medicine, as millions have had the privilege 
of knowing. 

Beulah Land, is to me, one of the most beautiful spots of earth, as you may 
see by the pictures photographed by T. W. S. Phelps, 927 Pennsylvania 
avenue, Washington, D. C, in October, 1888. The first pictures were taken 
by an unconverted man, and they were all defective, and spoiled except one, 
"The Rock of Ages " I then said, to Brother Phelps, "It needs a Christian 
man to take these pictures." He said, "I'll go," and every picture he took 
was perfect. May God bless him in his work ! 

A noted botanist says he has picked flowers in this grove every month irr 
the year, but one. In the spring, just as the snow is melting away, as I gO' 
up from the Rock of Ages to Beulah Land, the ground is covered Avith 
beautiful white " snow flowers," as I call them. In the hot weather there is 
always a cool, gentle breeze there, as if produced by angel's wings, and 
beautiful feathered songsters, are always warbling forth their songs, as of 
praise to God. In some portions of this grove there is an abundance of 
black raspberries, by which I have been refreshed more than once when 
spending a day there. 

I can see from Beulah Land, the Rock of Ages, and passing by it, a 
beautiful stream, a branch of Rock creek, which flows between "Washington 
and Georgetown, emptying into the majestic Potomac, which divides Mary-- 
land from Virginia. 

The pictures being taken after the trees had been touched a little by the- 
frost, gives you a more perfect view of the shape and beauty of these trees,, 
clear to the top. 

The perfect tree, mentioned in the narrative, is seen in the pictures marked' 
P; while the small, dwarfish, crooked tree, representing the natural man, is- 
seen in Plate 2, marked N. In Plate 2, the artist stood northeast of me. It 
represents me as standing with Testament in hand, six years after I was 
healed. The altar is at my left, and the cross tree at my right. 

Description of Plate No. 3. 

This presents the Rock of Ages. The instrument, was a^,ove the rock, so as*« 
to show considerable of the stream, and the baptismal pool, just under the- 
rock, and the general outlines of the rock itself, on the top of which I stand 
looking towards Beulah Land. What looks to be a pyramid, is in the back- 
ground. Right over my head is a natural vase, formed by the foliage of a tree. 
The sloping hills, are seen through the tops of the trees. 

At one side of, and at a little distance from the rock, close by a leaning 
tree, may be seen a lady, with clasped hands. The original of this picture is 
unknown, either to the artist or myself, though people pass and repass in the- 
course of the day, in pursuit of pleasure, observation or flowers. 



100 LIFE SKETCHES. 

You can readily see what seems to be steps, cut in the rock. On the rock, 
while on my way to Beulah land, I usually offer up prayer and sing : 

" Rock of Ages, cleft for me, 
Let me hide myself in thee, 
Let the water and the blood 
From thy wounded side which flowed, 
Be of sin the double cure. 
Save from wrath and make me pure." 

This rock, so endeared to me by association, has been a noted rock, for 
more than one century. There is an old legend connected with it, long before 
the Revolutionary War. In the legend, the Tuscarora tribe of Indians were 
involved in war with another tribe, in what is now Virginia, one trying to 
exterminate the other. The daughter of the chief of one tribe, loved a young 
chief in the other tribe. These two lovers would repair to this rock, to have 
their interviews. The chief, mistrusting that his daughter had interviews 
with the young chief, put detectives after her, who traced her to this rock. 
One day after this the chief followed her to this place, and finding the two 
here, deliberately shot the young chief. In the dying struggle he clasped 
his intended in his arms, and as he fell, dragged her with him over the rocks 
and she died with him. 

Description of Plate No. 4. 

This represents a different view of the same rock, as in Plate No. 3. You 
will see on this the outlines of a human face, and front of this face, between 
two trees in the brush, there is imperfectly seen the figure of an Indian, with 
his bow and arrow, and it is wonderful it should be there, after over a 
hundred years, and it stands, just where one would suppose the chief would 
have stood, when he shot the young lover with his arrow. On the side of 
the face may be seen the imperfect figure of feathers as worn by the chief, 
and on the front, by the nose, may be seen the figure of a chief in full 
uniform, while below the mouth may be seen the form of an Indian leaning 
against a rock. Whether it represents the young chief that was killed, God 
only knows. 

This picture shows the source of the stream, and the dense forest connected 
with it, the instrument being below. I stand near the pool, looking toward 
Beulah Land. Just over my head on a leaning tree may be seen a bird. 
This spot described above is a corner of a large tract of land (400 acres), 
owned by the widow Blagden, in the District of Columbia. 




Plate No. 4. The Rock of Ages, showing the Face. 



Chapter VII. 



Balttmoke. Maryland. 




Healing in the Churches, Faith Home, Another Faith Home, 

Minnie Addick's Case, Calls from the Home, Healing 

BY the Wat, Convictions of Future Duty, Closing 

the Home, Labors in Other Places. 



N the Charles Street Church some were healed in the 
congregation without the "laying on of hands." 
Once I arose in the congregation, being mightily 
moved by the power of the Spirit and said, " The 
Lord will now heal any one who desires to be healed 
and will join with me. Heal them now O, Lord, 
God ! " A man jumping up two feet or more, re- 
sponded, " Elder Raymond, I am a healed man now. I was 
afraid to come under your hand, fearing it was mesmerism, but 
now I know it is of God." Another man, badly deformed, 
rose right up, and was perfectly healed. All the congregation 
rejoiced and praised the Lord. 

About this time, the Hanover Street Methodist Church was 
offered for my use until Conference should convene in about two 
months. The meeting commenced with great interest and power. 
It was here that Bro. Swartz (an influential butcher) and family 
were saved; also Bro. Allison, a man of considerable wealth, a 
milk dealer, was gloriously healed of eighteen years* disease 
and saved. Afterwards his entire familv was saved, all but 
one of whom, five in number, I baptized. Here Bro. Johnson too, 
was saved, and many of his family healed, also the Ferguson 
family. Time and space fail me to mention many instances of 
great interest. Here the Lord or the devil drew Sister Stagmeyer, 
who had said I would never get another congregation in Baltimore, 
across the city, to sit under my ministry in a crowded house. 



102 LIFE SKETCHES OF 

This was months after she had made the statement, and this was 
the fifth church that I had occupied since then, and every one of 
them filled to overflowing, proving that she was a false prophet. 

Right in the height of this meeting, a faction of the church, 
such as may be found in many churches, thought it would be a 
good time to have an oyster supper and they undertook to force it 
right in the midst of the meeting, saying that I could occupy the 
audience room and they would take the basement. I protested in 
the name of Jesus ; while they insisted in the interest of pleasure, 
and, as they thought, financial profit, but which proved a financial 
failure. It drove me from the church. The sisters (I mean Sister 
P. and Sister M.) had been trying for over two months to find a 
building for a Faith Home but without success. One day as we were 
coming down N. Strieker street, I looked on the opposite side of 
the street and said, " See, here is the building the Lord wants us 
to have." They said, " Oh, no, that's not the building." It was 
a three-story brick house, with a basement nearly thirt}" feet wide, 
and proportionally deep. The parlors would hold a hundred and 
fifty people, and with the hall more, the location one of the best 
in the city. They finally yielded and thought I had better take it. 
The landlord, a physician and unsaved man, told his agent to 
let me have it for twenty-five dollars a month. I took it, but 
when the first month's rent was paid, I had not a dollar with 
which to furnish it. The next morning we went down in prayer to 
ask the Lord about it. In prayer I said, " Lord, will you give me a 
bed, or shall I send to Washington for mine?" I also said, 
*' Lord, we shall want one hundred and fifty chairs. Will you 
furnish them?" Just that moment, a little girl from Hanover 
street, came in and said that her ma wanted us to go and pray for 
her little crippled sister. We went round (Sister P. and I) and 
and prayed for the child. Since then, she has walked out on 
the street like other children. Her mother said, " Elder R., what 
do you most need, chairs or a bed?" I smiled and replied, "I 
have just asked my Father for a bed this morning." She said, 
" It will be there in due time," and so it was. That day I went 
up to the anticipated home to get it in readiness, and worked until 
after sun down and was just coming out, when a man met me on 
the steps and said, *' Do these chairs belong here? " pointing to a 
monstrous load of one hundred and fifty. I said, " No." (My 
prayer offered in the morning did not then occur to me.) He 



ELDER W. G. RAYMOND. 103 

said, " Is not this No. 9 N. Strieker street? Isn't this to be r 
faith home?" I answered, " Yes, it looks like one." " Isn**- 
your name W. G. Raymond." "Yes." He s. owed me the 
bill for the chai rs directed to me. I thanked God and said, 
''Unload them." I had not spoken to anyone about them or 
requested anyone to do so. Afterwards I found that Bro. Norton 
had spoken to this man, telling him that I had opened a home and 
would need tbe chairs, and that a banker had paid So. 00 towaras 
tLem. 1 now believe had I continued to ask my Father ior 
neeaea tnings. He would have furnished the whole house, for 
every time the sisters came into the home for meeting, they would 
bring a piece of bedding or something else needful. Some of the 
workers thought I had better go to an instalment store and 
purchase what was needed, and pay weekly, that the house might 
be quickly in readiness. I did so, but afterwards much regretted 
it, though I blamed no one but myself. This home was known 
as the Beulah Land Faith Home. — (See Plate.) 

During the year, the Lord showed his approval of the work by 
moving the people to bring in provisions and other things needed, 
and mone}', with which to defra}' current expenses. Those who 
assisted me in the home were Sisters M. A. Perry, Marks, and 
Mary Kirkness. Sister Trumble, of Virginia, Brother John Burke 
and family rendered valuable assistance. Sister Marks, however, 
only remained a short time. People from different parts of the 
United States visited the home and were there blessed of the Lord. 
Our meetings were well attended, two or three weekly in the 
home, and other nights in other portions of the city. Above all 
Jesus manifested the saving and healing power so that hundreds 
were healed and cured— some very marked cases. Many days the 
whole time would be spent in conversation and prayer with those 
who came in for healing and salvation. 

One important feature of the work was, that the doctrine of 
healing through faith in Christ was continuously taught so that all 
who came in were made acquainted with it, if never before. We 
remained in this house until the landlord wanted to sell the build- 
ing, when we removed the goods temporarily to Bro. Pencil's. 

Two ladies from New Orleans, who spent their summers in 
Baltimore, both suffering with a complication of diseases, came to 
the faith home. Their physicians had told them that he did net 
believe that they would ever reach New Orleans again. Their 



104 LIFE SKETCHES OF 

friends in bidding them good-bye said, " We shall never see you 
again, and we shall expect soon to hear that you are dead and 
buried in Baltimore." Their summer residence was little over 
one block from the home. We anointed with oil and laid on 
hands in the name of the Lord and offered prayer. They were 
both instantly healed, and could walk all around the city, and 
returned to New Orleans, and wrote back telling us how their 
friends rejoiced and congratulated them on their restoration to 
health. 

After several of the faith people had been looking around for 
two or three weeks for another house, without finding a suitable 
one, I said one evening to the workers, " Why do we wear out 
shoe leather looking for a house when the Lord can direct us right 
to the number ? " We knelt down and I prayed that the Lord would 
show the street and the No. that would be suitable for a faith home. 
The Lord showed it to Elder Burke, but he said, " No, Lord, that's 
too far, show me one nearer ; " and it went from him and another 
place closer by was given him. In the morning we went to see the 
last number shown, but when we reached it we found it was occu- 
pied and unsuitable. "Now," said I, "Let us go north to the 
other division of the street," but we found it ran down to an alley, 
and we gave it up. "Now," said I, "Bro. Burke, I believe the 
Lord will direct us to the first number. I believe that's the 
place." We went on north several squares, then I was halted. I 
said, " Let us secretly pray for the Lord to direct." While 
praying, my feet seemed to be drawn right around in another 
direction. Bro. B. said, " That's right. I am moved in the 
same direction." We went about six or eight squares, and again 
I came to a halt, when my feet were turned north, Bro. B. being 
moved in the same way. We went ten or twelve squares and 
when we came to a halt we were facing the east. I said, " Bro. 
B., we are near the house. Which way are you drawn?" He 
said, " East." I pointed with my left hand diagonally across the 
square, saying, "It seems in that direction." We went east a 
short square to Mj'rtle avenue. I said to Bro. B., " You go to 
the south one square and look and return, and I will go to the 
north one square." I went nearly the square and saw the 
house, a beautiful three-stor}- brick. While standing looking 
at it, a colored girl came out of the next house. I asked, 
" What is the rent of this house? " She said, " $25.00 now. It 



ELDER W. G. RAYMOND. 105 

has rented for $40.00." I asked, "How can I get into it?'* 
Pointing across the street, she said, " That man has the ke5\" I 
beckoned to Bro. B. to come up, and went over and got the key. 
As he came up, he said, " That's the number I saw." None of us 
thought of going into that part of the city. "We entered the house 
and had a season of prayer, and felt the presence of the Almighty. 
" Now, Bro. B.," I said, "if we are to have this house the agent 
will be in his ofl3ce, and we shall have few words." As I entered 
the first office, he came out of the second. I asked if he was the 
gentleman that rented such a house. He said, "Yes." "How 
much a month?" " $25.00." " Won't twenty do?" " I can't 
rent it to-day for twenty." " Can you give me possession and 
let the rent begin the 1st of the month?" (giving me a week to 
get the house in order.) " Yes." I paid him $20 and he gave 
me an order for the key. I was to pay him $5.00 when moved. 
When I went to pay this, I said, " The house was pretty dirty," 
and he said, " Let me have the receipt I gave you," and endorsed 
on it $5.00. More than one month after this, he allowed me $5.00 
for something I had done on the premises, as cutting the ice out of 
the alleyway, etc. 

The first of the month we were read}^ for labors in No. — 
Myrtle avenue. This, also, bore the name of Beulah Land. 
Though in an entire new section of the city, we had some very 
precious meetings ; a good many were healed and comforted, and 
some gloriously cleansed. Here my daughter, Mrs. Mary Gold- 
smith was healed, after being pronounced incurable by eminent 
physicians, who had, without avail, performed a very difficult 
surgical operation upon her, costing her husband over $500.00, 
only to say, " You must surely die." She had been justified a few 
weeks before her healing through the instrumentality of the 
Salvation Army. Now she received cleansing of soul and bod}^, 
and has been in perfect health since, and wholly consecrated to 
God, is used of him in leading others into the fountain of healing 
and cleansing, having wonderful gifts of the spirit. 

The crowning case of all I have known, was that of Miss Minnie 
Addick, daughter of Dietrich Addick, a ship carpenter, living on 
Canton avenue. Not only do I consider it a most wonderful case, 
but is so considered by a large number of eminent physicians, who 
were personally acquainted with the case, thirteen of them, paid 
physicians, who had attended the case. Four years before, she 



106 LIFE SKETCHES OF 

had been carried to the University Hospital, but remained there 
only twenty-four hours, as she thought they wanted to cut her up 
alive. Minnie was 30 years old, and had spent 13 years of her 
life in bed. Her diseases were complicated, but foremost of them 
were cancers in the stomach and breast, and a complete breaking 
down of the nervous forces. One cancer after another was 
removed by physicians, and she was cut and hacked, and kept 
almost constantly under the influence of morphine, which was 
taken inwardly, as well as injected into every part of her body. 
Physicians, ope by one, abandoned her case. The use of morphine 
became a habit, and she could not do without it, took fifteen 
grains a day. At one time was totall}'' unconscious for nine weeks, 
and partially so for thirteen weeks, was also subject to spasms 
all the time, sometimes having twenty-four a day ; the nails of her 
big toes grew back, so that twelve times she had the entire nails cut 
out, and finally had to have the big toe of her right foot amputated, 
and the doctor insisted upon having the left one cut off, but she 
would not consent, choosing rather to suffer on with it. She was 
full of scars, made by the surgeon's knife, in search of cancers, and 
the needle to inject morphine ; had been given up for dead sev- 
eral times, and unable to move a muscle for days. Her parents 
had come to this country, from Germany, twenty years ago. She 
was then ten years old, but had been sick two-thirds of that time. 
The change of country availed nothing. She would lie in bed 
for months at a time. Her father expended nearly his entire pa}^ 
for doctors' bills and medicine. From the age of sixteen years she 
was forced to remain in her bed. She could not bear her weight 
on her ankles. Only once a week could she have her bed made, it 
was such a trouble to handle her, for it took three men to move 
her about. The Pennsylvania railroad passed bj' her father's 
house, and the company were required to slack their speed and 
noise while passing that block, as the noise would throw her into 
spasms. One time her pastor (she was a member of the Lutheran 
Church) called upon her, and said, " Now, Minnie, be a good girl 
and die, as you can never get well. I have been up to the graveyard 
and selected your lot, and it is a beautiful one. Now don't be willful. 
You have been sick long enough." In a few weeks the wife of 
this minister suddenly died, and was buried in that lot. Soon after 
this, her mother sent for Sister Mar3' Perry and myself. As we 
could not go that day (Dec. 15, 1884,) Mrs. Stagmeyer and Mrs. 



ELDER W. G. RAYMOND. 107 

O'Donnell called and prayed for her, which gave her some encour- 
agement, but again calling, they gave her up, because she would 
not promise to give up the morphine. The next day Sister Perry 
and I called upon her. Sister Perry anointed her head and limbs 
and body with oil, in the name of the Lord, and we united in prayer, 
and she was immediately raised up, and never again took her bed 
as an invalid. In a day or two we called again, and she was walking 
about with a staff, much bent over. I said, '* Now, Minnie, 
throw away that staff," and, after prayer, she straightened up and 
never again used her staff. Still, she had not given up the mor- 
phine. She went out of the city among friends for about a year, 
keeping out of my way lest I would require her to abandon the use 
of morphine. Like many others, she had been raised up by the 
praj-er of faith, but not wholly healed. After opening my home 
on Myrtle avenue, she came there reluctantly, feeling an absolute 
necessity, for she knew if she stayed there she would be obliged to 
relinquish the morphine. When she entered the home she gave 
me her morphine and the needle. I found she was covered with 
sores, and her flesh rotten on the bones. I felt moved to give her 
in the name of the Lord, a warm salt water bath ; and in a short 
time she had the victory over the morphine through Christ, and 
was perfectly healed, and her flesh became like the flesh of a child ; 
was soon thoroughly saved, (for though she had had a nominal 
profession she never had been justified) and I baptized her in the 
river at Ferrj^ Bar, Baltimore, and she was set apart to the Gospel 
work. She was fluent in the German language, but not in English. 
I anointed her tongue, and prayed the Lord to give her the 
English tongue. She commenced at once speaking the English 
language fluently, and was employed bj^ Rev. Mr. Baxter, of 
England, then in Baltimore, and commenced public teaching in 
the English language, holding large meetings. From Baltimore 
she was sent to Norfolk, Va., and thence to Richmond, from there 
to Scotland, where she was when last I heard of her. Her experi- 
ence in healing, created quite a sensation at the time, and various 
newspapers recorded it. It was in the Baltimore Herald^ the 
Glohe Democrat (St. Louis), the Baltimore American, the Balti- 
more Sun, The Vanguard, Bro. Sherman, editor. 

In reply to a letter from Bro. Sherman asking for this experi- 
ence for his paper. Sister Perry wrote the following letter : — 



108 LIFE SKETCHES OF 

Baltimore, Md. 

Editor Vanguard : Deo/r Brother in Christ : — Your letter to 
Miss Minnie Addick, was duly received. I have received num- 
bers of your valuable papers. I like it because of its radical tone 
and the way you denounce sin. Praise the Lord for a full and 
complete salvation of spirit, soul, and body. The case of Sister 
Addick is marvelous and wonderful, the half cannot be told in 
print. And for ten weeks she has been in the Faith Home. She 
is completely cured of the morphine habit of thirteen years. Her 
physician says it is the only case on record where any person could 
possibl}^ be cured of that, but praise God, our Jesus is strong to 
deliver and mighty to save. This *' Faith Home " for the cure of 
the sick by the prayer of faith has been established for over a 
3'ear, and we depend on our Father in Heaven for the rent and all 
that we have. Many have been converted to God and healed here 
and we receive many requests for pra3'er from all over the land. 
Truly the harvest is great but the laborers are few. We teach a 
pure doctrine for the soul and body. We believe that God's chil- 
dren can live in communion and fellowship with him and the blood 
of Jesus Christ, his son, does cleanse from all sin. 

Glory to Jesus. Please send us a copj'^ of your paper. Rev. 
W. G. Raymond is now in Brooklyn, N. Y., doing a grand work 
for the Master. God has given him gifts and power and discern- 
ment and uses him for his glory, he is a holiness man not in name 
only, but God is in him, and he denounces sin in all its forms. 

Yours in Christ, 

Mrs. M. a. Perry. 

[Read the account of this marvelous case of healing. " Mod- 
ern Miracles " in Hj^giene column this issue. — Ed.] 

While in this Home, I had repeated calls to visit different states, 
to pray for the sick, but could not, on account of my arduous work 
at the Home, for there were always critical cases coming under 
our teaching and prayers, that seemed to hold me. I had 
answered one call by telegram from Brooklyn, N. Y., and was 
detained there one month, during which some very marked cases 
were almost instantl}' raised ; one was a little girl, a daughter of a 
Catholic lady Riding on the street car going to N. Y. City one 
day, a child opposite me seemed to be suffering much from a sore 
right over the e^'e. As there was a vacant seat made by a lady 
sitting along, I passed over and occupied it. To the mother I said, 
" Madam, what is the matter with your child? " She said, " The 
doctors say it is a cancer, and I am now on my way, as the day 
is set, to have it cut out." I said, '' I wouldn't do it for it will 



ELDER W. G. RAYMOND. 109 

disfigure your little child for life, and there are nine chances out of 
ten that it will kill the child." She looked quite serious and cast 
down for a moment, then looking up she asked, " What would you 
do?" I said, *' I would take a little olive oil and anoint the 
child's eye in the name of the Lord, and lay on my hand and ask 
Jesus to heal it, and I believe He would." She paused a moment 
in deep thought, then looked up in a very wistful manner, sapng, 
'-' I wish you would." As I anointed the child's eye, I laid my 
hand directly on the cancer, secretly praying, and instead of draw- 
ing back, as usual, when her mother attempted to touch it, the 
child pressed down on my hand, as though soothed, instead of 
pained, for about two minutes ; then of its own accord raised its 
head. This was all done so quietly that none of the passengers 
seemed to notice what wao going on. As the mother with the 
child was getting out to cross the Ferry, she said, " I am going 
back home, for I believe that Jesus will heal my child." " Please, 
then, give me your name and number, and in a few da3's I will 
call." She did so. In three da3^s I called to see the child. As 
the mother opened the door, she exclaimed, " Oh, here is that 
stranger that prayed for my child ! See here, (pointing to the 
child) she is nearly well." A month after this, I called with my 
daughter and the child was perfectly well, not even a scar remain- 
ing. 

I wish to make mention of one very marvelous case of healing, 
of a boatman, given up to die by fifty or more ph3'sicians in a Hos- 
pital, (as told me by his sister, the name I think was Os- 
trandei) in New York Cit}'. He had been operated upon by the 
surgeons, and several pounds of clotted blood taken from the 
bladder. Inflammation and mortification set in, and they sent him 
back to the boat to die. His sister giving me no rest, until con- 
senting to see him, I accompanied her to his boat. When the 
wound was uncovered the stench was such that no person could 
remain any time over it, and was as bjack as my hat. I stepped 
back a few moments, and considered what I should do, for my 
faith almost staggered ; when he looked up so imploringly, and 
said, *' can't you do something for me?" I said "yes, in the 
name of Jesus, I will anoint and lay hands upon you," then laying 
my hands upon the wound I ofliered up a short prayer and received 
the evidence that he would be healed. The fever left him, and he 
began at once to amend. In the course of a week I again called, 



110 LIFE SKETCHES OF 

when I fouDd him up, and quite smart. This was nearly four 
years ago, since which time he has been a healthy laboring man. 
To God be all the glor3\ 

In visiting the faith people and the faith homes of New York 
and Brooklyn, I began to see more clearly my subsequent line of 
duty. I wish to express my heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Shepherd 
and famil}', of Brooklyn, for opening to me their large double 
parlors giving me an opportunity to preach the full Gospel to 
many hungry souls. I also attended several special meetings in 
one of the Baptist churches in Brooklyn. I was requested by the 
Rev. Mr. Schofield, an Evangelist, to cast a devil out of his child 
that was worrying his wife almost to death. The Lord honored 
the order in the name of Jesus and the devil went out, though 
the child was some distance away, and the next week we heard 
the father relate the particulars in Dr. Simpson's church. I also 
preached a sermon on faith healing in another Baptist church, 
which seemed acceptable to pastor and congregation. While in 
Brooklyn, I also reached many boatmen and a Church of God was 
formed in Capt. Parker's boat, which has been in a healthy condi- 
tion ever since. 

I returned to Baltimore under the conviction that the Lord 
would have me close the house, having already promised to visit 
Mt. Jewett and other places. I believed there were now those in 
Baltimore that had been led out into the work through our instru- 
mentality, who were capable of carr3'ing it forward, and that the 
Lord had accomplished what he had purposed for me there. This 
the Lord has demonstrated by the labors of Elder Burke, Jeffrey, 
Miller, Litzenger, and others. While in the two homes, I bap- 
tized eight-seven. I wish here to express my appreciation of the 
valuable aid, that Mrs. A. M. Welbourn rendered by giving several 
thousands copies of " Scriptures Promises and Commands,'* 
on the cover of which was the notice of Beulah Land Faith 
Home. 

Carrying out my convictions, I closed the home in the spring of 
1887, and returned to Brooklyn with my daughter, according to 
promise. Sister Perry having previously accepted a call to Florida. 
Since then a wonderful work of grace in salvation and healing has 
been accomplished through her instrumentality in different South- 
ern States. We remained in Brooklyn some three weeks, visiting 
the sick most of the time, and different faith meetings in that vicin- 



ELDER W. G. RAYMOND. Ill 

ity. We called at Sister Williams' house and found she had been 
sick for over a week. We pra3'ed for her and she was able to 
attend the meeting I held there that afternoon. The next week, 
we were invited to her niission chapel, where we occupied the 
evening. The audience were very attentive and manifested con- 
siderable interest. 

From Brooklyn, we started for Mt. Jewett, Pa., by way of Buf- 
falo, intending to tarry a few days in Troy. Having learned that 
there was a faith home in Lansingburgh, kept by Sara M. C. Mus- 
grove, on reaching Troy, we called there. 

We were cordially received by Sister Musgrove, who at the 
time, through over-work, was suffering from general physical 
prostration and also a lung diflSculty, over which, she said, she had 
seemed unable to hold a victory, and was sorely tempted to believe 
that she should not recover, yet was laboring right along, holding 
meetings as usual, and visiting the sick. At her request, we 
anointed her with oil in the name of the Lord, and prayed for her, and 
Jesus gave the victory, so that she recovered entirely and has ever 
since labored harder than before. We were invited to unite with 
her in holding some extra meetings which we did, b}^ which means 
the work accumulated, so that we were led to remain until Jul}', 
allowing mj' daughter to go on without me, and taking the faith 
home as our headquarters. Meetings were held every night for 
six weeks, and during that time many came to the house during 
the da}' to be prayed for, and we visited many who were unable to 
call at the home. We taught and preached the full Gospel, and 
the Spirit came down at times with great power. The healing of 
the body was the leading truth presented ; in connection with the 
soul and body, through obedience, and faith in the Lord Jesus 
Christ, baptism by immersion being presented as a part of the 
obedience. 

As a part of the fruit of this teaching, accompanied by the work 
of the Holy Spirit upon the hearts, many were healed, some saved, 
and twenty-two baptized in the Hudson River, the Lord adding 
them to the Church of God, though their fields of labor might 
vary. " But now hath God set the members, every one of them 
in the body, as it hath pleased Him." 2 Cor. xii : 18. " Christ 
. . . the head.'* 

Several in Troy and Lansingburgh, were set apart for Elders, 
and Sister Musgrove for the ministry, and as shepherd over the 



112 LIFE SKETCHES. 

little flock, " according to the Gospel order." She had really been 
engaged for the four years past in the ministry, and been acting as 
pastor, as the Holy Ghost had led her ''to feed the church of 
God'' {Acts XX : 28), but had never had hands laid on her, and had 
never been baptized, as she had for years desired, not having had 
an opportunity to do so, without being baptized into some particu- 
lar organization, which she did not feel led to do. 
See Acts xiii : 1-4, and xix : 5-6, and vi : 1-8. 




Chapter VIII. 




Baptism and Lord's Supper, Jesus our Example in Labors, 
Proofs of Safety and Defence. 



HAVE sought not only here in Lansingburgh, but 
wherever the Lord has led me to labor since He 
healed me, to lead the people to receive, and the 
saints " to earnestly contend for the faith once 
delivered to the saints." Jude iii. 

Regarding baptism, we call the attention of the 
six months' ministry of John the Baptist, the long 
distance that Jesus came to be baptized of John " m the Jordan" ; 
when John forbade him, Jesus said, " Suffer it to be so now, for 
thus it becometh us to fulfill all righteousness," noticing the word 
us in the plural including Christ, himself, and the word righteous- 
ness. Now if Jesus who was circumcised when eight days old ; 
"who knew no sin," having perfectly kept the law — if Jesus, 
the spotless one, had lo be baptized to " fulfill all righteousness," 
is not the ordinance of baptism intimately connected with salva- 
tion? Peter said under the Holy Ghost, ''Repent and be 
baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ, for the 
remission of sins ; and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy 
Ghost, Acts ii: 38. " They then that received his word were 
baptized." 

Jesus, before his baptism, had never been publicly recognized as 
the Son of God by the Father. I teach a Trinity in the ordinance 
of baptism. As Christ the second Person in the Trinity, " came 
up out of the water," the Holy Ghost the third Person in the 
Trinity came in the form of a dove and lighted upon Him. The 
Father, the first Person in the Trinity, steps out as the heavens 
are opened and says, " This is my beloved Son in whom I am 
well pleased." The world might have known that He was to be 
8 



114 LIFE SKETCHES OF 

the Saviour of lost men, devils did know it, though He had imme- 
diately after, a conflict with Satan, who pretended to question it. 
The three first sermons Christ preached were to the devil, using 
every time " the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God," 
'' leaving us an example " in fighting the devil. The ordinance of 
baptism is taken from real life as is also the Sacrament, and rep- 
resents death, burial, and resurrection. " How shall we that 
are dead to sin, live any longer therein? Know ye not, that so 
many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into 
his death ? Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into 
death ; that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory 
of the Father, even so we also should, walk in newness of life. 
For if we have been planted together in the likeness of his death, 
we shall be also in the likeness of his resurrection." Rom. vi : 2-5. 
In the ordinance of the Lord's Supper, the bread is the torn 
body of Christ, and the wine the blood shed for us. See 1 Cor, 
xi: 23-26. " Ye do shew the Lord's death till he come" Here, 
then, is a looking back to the cross on which Jesus' body was torn 
and his blood spilt for us as he " bare our sins in his own bod}' on 
the tree," and also a looking forward to Christ's second coming 
when He " shall appear . . . imthout sin unto salvation." Heh. 
ix: 20. Jesus has left these two ordinances, Baptism and tbe 
Lord's Supper, which he requires and commands his followers to 
observe in the letter and the spirit. Paul said, " I have received 
of the Lord that which also I delivered unto you," and then gave 
directions regarding the Lord's Supper. Christ said, '' This do in 
remembrance of me." Then after his resurrection, " Jesus came 
and spake unto them, saying. All power is given unto me in 
heaven and in earth. Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, 
baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of 
the Holy Ghost ! Teaching them to observe all things whatso- 
ever I have commanded you : and, lo, I am with you alway, even 
unto the end of the world. Amen." With these passages before us, 
how can any say, as many do, that these ordinances are of no im- 
portance? To His disciples, Jesus said, "Why call- ye me Lord, 
Lord, and do not the things that I say?" Luke vi : 46, again, 
''Whosoever therefore shall break one of these least commandments 
and shall teach men so, he shall be called the least in the kingdom 
of heaven, but whosoever shall do and teach them, the same shall 
be called great in tbe kingdom of heaven." Mat. v: 19. "Hath 



ELDER W. G. RAYMOND. 115 

the Lord as great delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices as in 
obej'ing the voice of the Lord? Behold to obey is better than 
sacrifice and to hearken than the fat of rams. For rebellion is as 
the sin of witchcraft, and stubbornness is as iniquity and idol- 
atry." 1 Sam. XV : 22, 23. 

According to the Scriptures, then, I baptize a candidate neither 
into or out of any organization, but I baptize any who, like the 
Eunuch, apply for baptism on profession of faith in Christ and 
the Lord adds them to the Church. If they choose to work with 
any Christian organization, they are free to do so. We may be 
deceived and baptize one who has not been saved, but the Lord 
makes no mistakes. He never adds an unsaved or hypocrite to 
the '' church which is His body." " The Lord added to the church 
daily such as should be saved." Acts xvi : 5. And so were the 
churches established in the faith and increased in number dail}^, 
these were household churches. The Lord leads me by the Holy 
Spirit to walk in daily service as Jesus walked ; to labor and 
teach as I believe he labored and taught when on earth during Ms- 
public ministry. To the Father, Christ said, " As thou hast sent 
me into the world, even so, have I also sent them into the world. "^ 
And to the disciples, " As my Father hath sent me, even so send 
I you." His word was wrought " in the power of the Spirit,'** 
and to his disciples, he said, " Ye shall receive power, after that 
the Holy Ghost is come upon you." What was the work Christ 
did in the power of the Spirit? It may be briefly summed up in 
this: — " And Jesus went about . . . preaching the gospel of the 
kingdom, and healing all manner of sickness and all manner of 
diseases." 

i now call your attention to the significance of immersion. 
Read the following passages of Scripture: John iii : 3. "Jesus 
answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, 
except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God." 
(without a change of heart, he cannot see the kingdom of God). 
4th verse : " Nicodemus saith unto him, how can a man be born 
again when he is old. Can he enter the second time into his moth- 
er's womb and be born. " It is very apparent that Nicodemus 
understood Jesus to mean physical regeneration, and this waS' 
demonstrated, by the physical healing of the body. If God get 
a man's heart, he secures the entire man. 5th verse : " Jesus 
answered, verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born 



116 LIFE SKETCHES OF 

of "Water, and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of 
God" (or the church of God). The Water and the Spirit, are 
essential to the completion of salvation. Please read 1st epistle 
o^ John, V : 5th, 6th, 7Lh, and 8th verses ; ''This is he that came by 
Water and Blood, and it is the Spirit that beareth witness, because 
the Spirit is truth." Christ wouldn't have been our Saviour, if he 
bad neglected, or refused immersion. "For there are three that 
bear record in Heaven, the Father, the Word, and the Hoh^ Ghost, 
and these three are one, "(the Word here has reference to Christ. 
It was made flesh. St. John, 1st chapter, 14th verse : "And the 
Word was made flesh and dwelt among us, and we beheld his Glory," 
"And there are three that bear witness in earth, the Spirit, and 
the Water, and the Blood : and these three agree in one." The Spirit 
quickeneth, the Water and the Blood cleanseth. 1 Peter i : 20, 21, 
"Wherein few, that is, eight souls (or bodies) were saved by 
Water, The like figure whereunto even baptism (or immersion) 
doth, also, now save us," saves us from the sin of disobedience. 
Acts xxii : 16, " And now why tarriest thou, arise and be baptized 
(immersed) and wash away thy sins, calling on the name of the 
Lord," (here is where the sins go into the depths of the sea, they 
go out on the ebbing tide, never to be resurrected. Hallelujah 
to the Lamb). Please read Acts ii : 38, " Then Peter said unto 
them, repent and be baptized, every one of you in the name 
of Jesus Christ, For the remission of sins. And ye shall receive the 
gift of the Holy Ghost." Luke vii : 30, " But the Pharisees and 
lawyers rejected the counsel of God against themselves, being not 
baptized of him." We shall reject the counsel of Christ if we 
neglect his baptism (immersion). Please read Matt, iii: 13-17, 
" And Jesus answering said unto him (John) Suffer it to be 
so now for thus it becometh us to fulfill all righteousness : then 
he suffered him." " Then answered Peter, Can any man forbid 
water, that these should not be baptized, which have received the 
Holy Ghost as well as we? And he commanded them to be 
baptized in the name of the Lord. Then prayed they him to 
tarry certain days." Acts x: 44-48. I believe that the Scriptures 
teach that when one believes on the Lord Jesus Christ, and is 
immersed in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost, the 
Lord adds that one to the Church of God ; in proof of which, see 
Acts ii: 47, "And the Lord added to the church daily such as 
should be saved." Read the following passages, and you will learn 



ELDER W. G. RAYMOND. 117 

the Scripture name of the Church, -4o^s xx : 28, "Take heed, 
therefore, unto yourselves and to all the flock, over the which, the 
Holy Ghost hath made you overseers to feed the Church of God, 
which he hath purchased with his own blood." 1 Cor. i : 2, 
" Unto the Church of God which is at Corinth, to them that 
are sanctified in Christ Jesus, called to be saints." 1 Cor. 
x: 32, "Give none offence, neither to the Jews nor to the 
Gentiles, nor to the Church of God." 1 Cor. xi : 16, " But if 
any man seems to be contentious, we have no such custom, 
neither the Churches of God," also the 22d verse, " But have ye 
not houses to eat, and drink in, or despise ye the Church of God, 
and shame them that have not." 1 Cor. xv : 9, "For I am 
the least of the Apostles, that am not meet to be called an 
apostle, because I persecuted the Church of God." 2nd Cor. 
i: 1, "Unto the Church of God which is at Corinth with 
all the saints which are in all Achaia." Gal. i : 13, " How that 
beyond measure, I persecuted the Church of God and wasted it." 
1 Thes. ii : 14, "For ye, brethren, became followers of the 
Churches of God, which in Judea, are in Christ Jesus." 2 Thes. 
i: 4, "So that we ourselves, glory in you, in the Churches of 
God." 1 Tim. 3 : 5, 15, " For if a man know not how to rule 
his own house, how shall he take care of the Church of God^ 
which is the Church of the Liyin^ God, the pillar and ground of 
the truth." Once it is called the Churches of Christ or God» 
Rom. xvi : 16, Those that I baptize, I feel moved to pour oil ort 
their heads in the name of the Lord : lay hands on them with others, 
and offer up prayers for a spiritual and physical blessing ; and they 
usually receive it. I take the Bible, and we lay hands upon it, and 
enter into a covenant with God ; we promise to be true to God our 
Heavenly Father. We promise to be true and obedient to Jesus 
Christ our elder brother, and to be led and sanctified, and be set 
apart by the Holy Ghost. We also covenant to be true to each other, 
and to love each other in Jesus Christ. We covenant to receive 
the word of God, as the man of our counsel, as our compass and 
chart, and to follow its precepts and teachings. We also promise 
to be true to ourselves, and true and faithful to the world, in lead- 
ing them to Christ. We continue in prayer and sa}''. What we bind 
on earth, ratify in Heaven, and what God joins together, let no man 
or devils sever. Then we shake hands, giving them a hearty wel- 
come to all the privileges of the Gospel or Church of God among 
the people. 



118 LIFE SKETCHES OF 

" And his fame went throughout all Syria : and they brought unto 
him all sick people that were taken with divers diseases and tor- 
ments, and those which were possessed with devils, and those 
which were lunatic, and those that had the palsy ; and he healed 
them." Mat. iv : 23, 24. This kind of work, but especially the 
healing the sick and casting out devils, was carried into the even- 
ing, for we read that, " When the evening was come, they 
brought unto him many that were possessed with devils : and he 
cast out the spirits with Ms word, and healed all that were sick : 
That it might be fulfilled which was spoken by Esaias the 
prophet, saying, Himself took our infirmities, and bear our sick- 
nesses." Mat. viii : 16, 17. 

We notice that the greater part of the time, during those three 
years, was spent in ministering to the sick and afflicted. He was 
truly " the Saviour of the body " and " he bear our sicknesses *' 
as truly as " he bear our sins." On some he laid his hands for 
healing, Luke iv : 40 ; from some he received the touch of faith, 
Mark v : 25 ; for some he sent his word and healed at a distance, 
" he cast out the evil spirits with his word," Mat. viii : 13-16. 

Notice particularlj^ that Christ recognized devils in the bodies of 
individuals, and cast them out, and that what is now termed insan- 
ity, He recognized as possessed by devils, Mat. viii : 28-33 ; also 
the deaf and dumb, when he cast the devils out of them, they 
spoke and heard. Mat. ix : 32, 33, and xii : 22 (notice in this 
that the blind saw when the devil was cast out) . He recognized 
various diseases as the work of the devil. See Mat. xvii : 15-18, 
and Luke xiii : 11-16. Peter said in the Holy Ghost that Christ 
" healed all that were possessed of devils. Acts x : 38. 

In the work of Christ, healing and salvation were intimately 
connected. In many cases, perhaps the most, the healing pre- 
ceded the forgiveness of sins, while in others, the sins were first 
forgiven, and the healing followed, and this has been my experience 
in the faith work. See John ix : 1-3, vi : 7, 35, 38 ; Mat. ix : 2- 
7. " He healed those that had need of healing" and many glo- 
rified God and followed him as the result. Mark ii : 12, and iii : 5, 
7, 8 ; but his work in individuals and communities was in many 
cases according to the faith of individuals and communities. ''And 
Jesus seeing their faith said unto the sick of the pals}^, etc.," to 
another, " if thou canst believe, all things are possible to him that 
believeth," while in his own country " "he did not many mighty 



ELDER W. G. RAYMOND. 119 

works there because of their unbelief." So also the Apostles in 
their work, the healing resulted in the salvation of many. 

"And by the hands of the apostles, were many signs and 
wonders wrought among the people. 

And of the rest, durst no man, join himself to them but the 
people magnified them. 

And believers were the more added to the Lord, multitudes 
both of men and women. 

Insomuch that they brought forth the sick into the streets, and 
laid them on beds and couches that at the least the shadow of 
Peter passing by, might overshadow some of them. 

Then came also, a multitude out of the cities round about unto 
Jerusalem, bringing sick folks, and them which were vexed with 
unclean spirits and they were healed, every one." Acts v : 
12-16. 

" Then Philip went down to the city of Samaria, and preached 
Christ unto them. 

And the people with one accord gave heed unto the things 
which Philip spake, hearing and seeing the miracles which he did. 

For unclean spirits crying with loud voices came out of many 
that were possessed with them and many taken with palsies, and 
that were lame, were healed. And there was great joy in that city. 

But when they believed Philip preaching the things concerning 
the kingdom of God, and the name of Jesus Christ, thej'' were 
baptized, both men and women. 

Then Simon himself believed also and when he was baptized, 
he continued with Philip and wondered, beholding the miracles 
and signs, which were done." Acts viii : 5-13. 

Christ's Battery and Artillery. 

As we have now placed the batteries, let us seek for the proofs 
of safet}^ and defence, as we go forth under Christ our leader, into 
the conflict against Satan and his host. First, we find it in the 
commission Christ gave to the Twelve. " And gave them power, 
and authority over all devils and to cure diseases. And he sent 
them to preach the kingdom of God and to heal the sick. Luke 
ix: 1,2. 

Second, the commission to the Sevent3\ " And heal the sick that 
are therein and say unto them the kingdom of God is come nigh unto 
you. And he that heareth you heareth me, and he that despiseth 



120 LIFE SKETCHES OF 

me, despiseth him that sent me. Behold I give unto you power 
to tread on serpents and scorpions and over all the powers of the 
enemy, and nothing b}' any means shall hurt you." Luke x: 9, 
16, 19. 

Third, in the commission to all believers for all time. " These 
signs shall follow them that believe, in my name shall they cast 
out devils ; they shall speak with new tongues, they shall take up 
serpents ; and if they drink any deadly thing it shall not hurt 
them; they shall lay hands on the sick, and they shall recover" 
Mark xvi: 15, 18. 

" Again I say unto you, that if two of you shall agree on earth, 
as touching anything that they shall ask, it shall be done for them, 
of my Father which is in Heaven. For where two or three are 
gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them." 
Mat. xviii: 19, 20. 

These may be termed the Gospel Howitzer, always loaded and 
ready for action wherever the enemy may be, and always doing 
perfect execution when touched by the fire of the Holy Ghost, 
and can never be spiked or taken by the enemy. The long range 
rifle may be found in John xiv : 12,13. '' The works that I do 
shall ye do also ; and greater works than these shall ye do, 
because I go unto my Father, And whatsoever ye shall ask in 
my name, that will I do, that the Father may be glorified in the 
Son." The magazine where the ammunition is always kept in the 
battery may be found in Mat. viii : 17. " Himself took our 
infirmities and bear our sicknesses." The Headquarters of the 
Medical Department may be found at Post, James v : 14-18, 
under the supervision of the Holy Ghost. " Is any sick among 
you ? let him call for the elders of the church ; and let them pray 
over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord : And 
the prayer of faith shall save the sick, and the Lord shall raise 
Mm up ; and if he have committed sins, they shall be forgiven 
him. Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for 
another, that ye may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of 
a righteous man availeth much. The standing sentries may be 
found on the batteries. 1 Cor. xii. Post 1, '' Word of Wisdom." 
Post 2, "Word of Knowledge." Post 3, " Faitho" Post 4, 
" Gifts of Healing." Post 5, " Working of Miracles." Post 6, 
" Prophecy." Post 7, " Discerning of Spirits." Post 8, " Divers 
kinds of tongues." Post 9, " Interpretation of tongues." 



ELDER W. G. RAYMOND. 121 

Proof, that these posts are always to be under the general orders 
as long as the conflict between Christ and Satan continues, is 
foun,d in these words, " Teaching them (all nations) to observe all 
things whatsoever I have commanded you, and lo I am with you 
alway even unto the end of the world. Amen." 3fat. xxviii : 20. 
" And he said unto them go ye into all the world and preach the 
Gospel to ever}' creature. 

He that believeth and is baptized, shall be saved ; but he that 
believeth not, shall be damned. 

And these signs, shall follow them that believe ; in my name, 
shall they cast out devils ; they shall speak with new tongues. 

They shall take up serpents, and if they drink any deadly 
thing, it shall not hurt them ; they shall lay hands on the sick, 
and they shall recover. 

So then, after the Lord had spoken unto them, he was received 
up into Heaven, and sat on the right hand of God and they went 
forth, and preached everywhere, tBe Lord, working with them^ 
and confirmed the word with signs following. Amen. Mark xvi : 
15-20. 

Notice also the 1st Epistle to the Corinthians, in the 12th chapter 
of which the " gifts of the Spirit" are specified, is written " to them 
that are sanctified in Christ Jesus, called to be saints, with all 
THAT IN EVERY PLACE Call upou the name of Jesus Christ our Lord, 
both theii^s and ours." " These" gifts we are told " worketh that 
one and the self-same Spirit, dividing to every man severally as he 
will." " For as the body is one and hath many members and all 
the members of that one body, being many are one body : so also 
is Christ. Then the operation of these gifts are compared to the 
operation of the different members of the " church Which is His 
body." " For by one Spirit, are we all baptized into one body." 
" Now hath God set the members evert one of them in the body, 
as it hath pleased him." " Now ye are body of Christ, and mem- 
bers in particular. And God hath set some in the church, first 
apostles, secondarily prophets, thirdly teachers, after that mira- 
cles, then gifts of healings, helps, governments, diversities of 
tongues. Are all apostles? are all prophets? are all teachers? are 
all workers of miracles? Have all the gifts of healing? do all 
speak with tongues? do all interpret? But covet earnestly the 
best gifts." Now if an}^ of these "members" are inefl3cient or 
removed from " the body " ; that body is ineflScient and mutilated. 



122 LIFE SKETCHES OP 

Christ has a mutilated body ! Does the church still exist on earth? 
Then do the gifts of the Spirit still continue. 

Again in the Epistle of James to " the twelve tribes scattered 
abroad," the prescription for the sick is just as definite as the 
direction to those who lack wisdom (i : 5) or to those who are 
afflicted (v : 13) or to those who " fall into divers temptations," 
(i: 2) and the promise connected with the prayer of faith is just 
as definite and emphatic as any other promise. If we say this 
promise is not for the church now, to be consistent, must we not 
say the remainder of the Epistle is not for the church now? The 
great secret in this conflict against Satan and all his works is that 
'' though we walk in the flesh, we do not war after the flesh : (for 
the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through 
God to the pulling down of strong-holds :)" " Not by might, or 
b}^ power, but by my Spirit, saith the Lord." 

See Acts v : 12-16. " And b}' the hands of the Apostles were 
many signs and wonders wrought among the people. And of the 
rest durst no man join himself to them but the people magnified 
them. And believers were the more added to the Lord, multi- 
tudes both of men and women. Insomuch that they brought forth 
the sick into the streets and laid them on beds and couches, that 
at the least the shadow of Peter, passing by might overshadow 
some of them. There came also a multitude out of the cities 
round about unto Jerusalem, bringing sick folks and them which 
were vexed with unclean spirits and they were healed every one." 

^c^s viii : 5-8, 12, 13. "Then Philip went down to the city 
of Samaria, and preached Christ unto them. And the people with 
one accord gave heed unto those things which Philip spake hear- 
ing and seeing the miracles which he did. For unclean spirits cry- 
ing with loud voice came out of many that were possessed with 
them : and many taken with palsies, and that were lame were 
healed. And there was great joy in that city. But when they 
believed Philip ; preaching the things concerning the kingdom of 
God, and the name of Jesus Christ, they were baptized, both men 
and women. Then Simon himself believed also ; and when he 
was baptized he continued with Philip, and wondered, beholding 
the miracles and signs which were done." 



ELDER W. G. RAYMOND. 123 

The following letter, which was overlooked at the time, should 
have appeared previously, in connection with matter relating to 
the Seneca Indians : 

New York, April 3, 1854. 
J. B. Peck, Esq., N. Y. : 

Dear Brother: — I acknowledge the reception from yourself, 
through the venerable and beloved Dr. Cone, of a certificate of 
Life membership, in the American Bible Union. 

You know, my dear Brother, that my entire labors are con- 
nected with the spiritual interests of the Red Man. The poor 
Indian demands my toil. Just now my beloved associate, Rev. 
N. Smith, is suffering a most bitter persecution from the Pedo- 
Baptists, for his zeal in behalf of a pure Bible faithfully preached, 
and for contending that Christian baptism is immersion only. In 
preaching this truth, he has withstood the advocates of sprinkling 
to the face. But God has stood by him, and given him many 
souls. Within a few months we have immersed upwards of 
two hundred ; and hj a letter just received, I am informed that 
the work is rolling on with great power at Tonawanda, to which 
place he had gone from Alleghany, where his persecutors had 
locked the only house suitable for worship, against him. At 
Tonawanda, about thirty-five have found Jesus precious, and will, 
probabl}', the most of them, yield soon to the ordinance of 
Christian immersion. 

It is peculiarl}^ gratifying to me that the American Bible Union, 
an institution so noble in its aim, so full of promise in its results, 
should have secured in the brief period of its existence so large a 
number of praying and generous friends. I believe that God 
loves the Bible Union ; and I trust its friends may continue to 
keep near the Saviour, that they may ever prove worthy of his 
love. There is no Society in this world, except the Church itself, 
with which I should regard it a greater honor to be connected. 
Ever since I knew anj'thing about the Bible, I have wished to see 
it, in every language, freed from human imperfections. And as 
the American Bible Union has inscribed this purpose upon her 
banner, I give to her my sj^mpathy and prayers. May the Angel 
of the Covenant watch over its interests till its great mission is 
accomplished. W. G. Raymond, 

Agent to Alleghany Mission, 



124 LIFE SKETCHES OF 

COMMISSION. 



No. 4934. American Baptist Home Mission Rooms, 

New York, June 30, 1866. 
To the Rev. W. G. Raymond: — The Executive Board of the 
American Baptist Home Mission Society, reposing confidence in 
you as a member in good standing in a regular Baptist Church, 
and a devoted Minister of Jesus Christ, in full sympathy with the 
ministry, the membership, the doctrines, and the ordinances of 
the Baptist Churches, have appointed 3^ou as their Missionary to 
preach the Grospel in Kansas, and to labor chiefly for the benefit of 
the Pottawottamie Nation of Indians, under the advice and direc- 
tion of Rev. E. E. L. Taylor, D. D. 

2. Your appointment is for 12 months from the first day of 
April, 1866. 

3. The amount ai3f)ropriated for your support is not to exceed 
Six Hundred Dollars, or at that rate per annum from us ; the bal- 
ance to be obtained from the farm, school and other sources and 
all to our credit. 

4. While holding this coMMisstoN, you are to give your whole 
time to the work of the ministry on the field, and for the people 
above named. 

5. At the end of each quarter of the time for which you are 
appointed, you are fo report to the Corresponding Secretary the 
number of weeks you have labored during that quarter, and the 
work 3^ou have done in that time, and always to follow the 
" FORM OF QUARTERLY REPORT" givcu ou the third page. 

6. On the receipt of each report, if all is satisfactory, our draft 
for the balance of salary due from us will be sent you by mail 
unless you direct otherwise. 

7. If at any time it shall be apparent to you or to the Board 
that the interests of the cause you are appointed to serve demand 
a change, you can return or the Board may recall this commission, 
or by mutual agreement you may be transferred to another field, 
but you can not without the consent of the Board, leave your field 
and retain this commission, nor can the Board send you to another 
field without your consent. 

By order of the Executive Board, 

T. D. Anderson, 
Chairman of the Executive Board. 
Jay S. Backus, Corresponding Secretary. 



ELDER W. G. RAYMOND. 125 

TuE Calvary Baptist Church 
OF Washington, D. C. 

Under the Pastoral care of Rev. T. R. Hewlett. 

To the Auburn Baptist Church, with Christian salutation, 

Dear Brethren : — Our beloved Rev. W. G. Raymond, Sister Ray- 
mond his wife, and daughter Ella Raymond, are members of this 
Church, in regular standing, having requested a Letter of Dismis- 
sion from us to unite with you, we do hereby cordially commend 
them to 3^our Christian fellowship and watch-care. If received by 
3^ou within twelve months from this date, and we are so notified, 
we shall regard them as dismissed from us. 

May the blessings of the Great Head of the Church abide with 
you and the friends who leave us. 

By order of the Church, 

U. H. HuTCHiNs, Clerk. 
Washington, July 15, 1867. 



Washington, D. C, December 16, 1863. 
Captain Scheetz, 

Sir : — The bearer, W. G. Raymond, has been extensively known 
in Washington and vicinity for the last two j'ears, first as Lieu- 
tenant of the Provost Guard in this city, in which capacity he dis- 
tinguished himself by his skill and integrity, and won the confi- 
dence of all law-abiding citizens ; he continued in that position 
until promoted by the President. 

His extensive knowledge of Washington and vicinity, his past 
experience, and his skill in obtaining the confessions of the par- 
ties arrested, or sufficient evidence in the cases (which latter came 
under my own observation), qualify him a most successful and effi- 
cient officer, and I cheerfully recommend him to your confidence, 
hoping he may obtain a good position in your Detective Corpsj 
where I feel assured he will render most valuable and efl'ective 
service. Yours respectfully, Henry B. Todd, 

Capt. and Prov, Mar. 



Chapter IX. 




Mt. Jewett, Word by the Way, Elmira, Various Places in 

Massachusetts, Back to Lansingburgh, In Vermont, 

Jersey City and Vicinity, Glorious Work, Again 

IN Lansingburgh, Back to Jersey City. 



'he latter part of July, 1887, I was led to fulfil an 
engagement made months before, to go to Mt. 
Jewett, Fa., where my son Edwin and family re- 
side. On my way there I passed through Geneva, 
where I was immersed in the fall of 1837, in 
Seneca Lake. I also passed through Corning, 
stopping all night at Bradford ; in the morning I 
passed by the property that legally belonged to me, which is 
prized at $80,000, now illegally in the hands of others. As we 
were ascending the mountain, the passengers and workmen were 
cursing and swearing until I was sorely tried and was led to 
rebuke the devil, and ask the Lord to put them in fear. As we 
reached the Kenso Bridge, which is 301 feet high, spanning a ravine 
2000 feet across, I noticed that the ring -leader of the scoffers 
walked up the isle to the end of the car, so that he could not look 
off either side, and actually trembled and turned pale, and I did not 
hear him utter another oath during the trip. I would say here, 
this bridge is the wonder of the world. 

Mt. Jewett is a branch of the Alleghany Mountains, 2300 feet 
above the level of the sea, yet there are here three or four lines of 
railroad doing an immense amount of work. The village, or set- 
tlement, extends ten miles east to Smithport, the county seat of 
McKean Co., and west ten miles to Kane. This portion is settled 
mostly by Swedes. I went on to one elevation where I had a view of 
10,000 acres of timber land. I held meetings at Mt. Jewett for 
about a month ; my daughter, Mrs. Goldsmith being with me. Quite 



ELDER W. G. RAYMOND. 127 

a number of the Swedes were healed and gloriously saved. I 
baptized in a beautiful stream on the height of that mountain, 
sixteen candidates, since which time I have baptized fourteen, 
making thirty in all, and the Lord added them to the Church of 
God ; my son and wife, and three children, were among the number. 
Bro. Smith and my son were ordained to the Gospel ministry, and 
Bro. S. has been doing a good work since, in connection with 
my son. On mj' way from there to Baltimore, we stopped for 
dinner with a family in Farmers' Valle}'. The man and his son 
were ill, — the son with mumps and the father with general pros- 
tration. While at the dinner table, we prayed for the son, and he 
was able to eat a hearty meal. After dinner, the boy said, '"I 
believe the Lord is able to heal me entirely," and having a season 
of prayer, it was according to his faith, for he was entirely healed. 
After this, the father said, " I have a work needed to be done in my 
body and soul too." As we prayed he believed and said, "I 
believe the Lord has healed me. Now pray that God will have 
mercy on my soul for I am a great sinner." He and his son were 
soon led to Christ, both giving good evidence that they had 
obtained salvation. As my son, who was with me, spoke of his 
baptism at Mt. Jewett, the man said, " I have a good pool right 
on my farm, only a few rods away." I asked, " Do you and 
3'our son feel it your duty to be baptized ? " They both said, 
" We do." As they were getting ready to go to the water, my little 
grandson Claudie, who had been converted in the meetings, said, 
" Grandpa, I want to be baptized." The man furnished him a 
robe in one of his long flannel shirts, and we proceeded to Cole's 
Creek, where I baptized the three, and the Lord added them to the 
church, and we laid hands on them and they received, as I believe, 
some of the gifts of the spirit. After this, he said, '' Cannot 3'ou 
hold a meeting here this evening? You can have my double 
parlors." I said, " Yes, if you can get a congregation together." 
He started out as a missionary and brought in a good congrega- 
tion, to whom he related his experience of what the Lord had that 
day done for his soul and body, and they were all melted to tears. 
This was similar to the experience of Philip and the Eunuch. The 
next evening I held a meeting in the Baptist Church at Anning 
Creek, the pastor and family, and most of his church and congre- 
gation, being present. The Lord gave me great freedom, and the 
people were wonderfully moved. One man went after another in 



128 LIFE SKETCHES OF 

the night, and brought him into the place at two o'clock in the 
morning, that he might be prayed with before I should go away, 
and the next day the people thronged the house, as the people 
said, ''As though it were a general training day," and I preached 
and praj^ed for the people all that day, until I had to take the train 
that evening for Baltimore. The Lord only knows the results of 
that day's labor. The next morning I arrived at Baltimore, and 
called on Bro. Allison, Intending to spend some weeks there 
among the saints. Before I had taken my dinner, a dispatch 
came from Elmira, requesting me to come immediately, to pray for 
a very sick woman, dying with a cancer. I was not prepared to 
give an answer, and had to go to Washington that day, which 
I did, and returned in time to attend a faith meeting that even- 
ing at Bro. Allison's. In this meeting I was received with open 
arms and great joy, but followed by much regret when they 
learned that I was to go immediate^ to Elmira. The next morning 
I responded to the telegram, saying that I would go at my earliest 
convenience, and as I returned to my room, I told the Lord I had 
not quite money enough to purchase my ticket and if he wanted 
me to go to furnish the means. The next mail brought me a ten 
dollar bill, but could not leave on account of trains not making 
connection, until eleven o'clock Sunday night. During the few 
days I stayed in Baltimore, I found the work in a flourishing con- 
dition, and my spiritual children earnestly contending for the faith 
once delivered to them. Sunday night we had communion, and 
many tears were shed as I left them for the train, for the meeting 
continued until quite late. 

Arriving in Elmira, the next day, I went directly to see the dear 
afflicted sister. She had been a faithful servant of God for forty 
or fifty years, and was a member of the Baptist Church. In a 
very little while the Lord showed me that she was to leave this 
world, and told the family so, but the nurse, and others, urged me 
to stay. This lady was at the house of Mrs. Blake, who, as well 
as the sick lady herself, made a special request that I should 
remain as long as the sick one should live. She could only sleep, 
as I laid my hand, in the name of Jesus, over the cancer. The Lord 
said to me, " Will 3^ou go up to death with this saint? " I said, 
"Yes, Lord, I will," and I did, and took my place among the 
mourners at the funeral. The morning she died, I was urged by 
the friends to make one effort more to see if the Lord would not 



ELDER W. G. RAYMOND. 129 

reverse the order of death. While making that effort in my room, 
the Lord showed me He was going to take her, and I went down 
into her room. Kneeling down by the bed I secretly prayed that 
the Lord would take her gently through the valley, and then passed 
into another room. I was at once called back. She said, " I 
want Elder R. to raise me up in the bed." I did so, bracing her 
up, while she took a little refreshment, and then leaned her head 
on my shoulder. Somebody said, " Elder, you don't sit very 
comfortable." She said cheerfully, " Never mind, Elder R. He 
is all right ; then j'ou may let me down on the pillow." As she 
lay down, the cancer, no doubt, ate through into her stomach, and 
she began to throw up. I said ''No, it won't come up," and 
prayed God to send it back, and he did. She turned her head 
and looked at me and moved her head and lips a little, as if to say 
good-bye. I had m}^ hand on her head and chest. She breathed 
less and less, and passed away without a struggle. I saw that I 
had been placed there, that she might rest her weary head on my 
shoulder a moment, before she passed through the valley of death. 

After this, my daughter and I had considerable work in differ- 
ent parts of the cit}'. It was announced in the papers that on 
Sunday I would baptize several who had promised to be baptized, 
and at the appointed time over a thousand were assembled on the 
banks of the Shemuug River to witness the ordinance. I preached to 
them on the portion of the Gospel usually neglected, viz., baptism 
and healing, after which I baptized only one, the others failing to 
come. A few evenings after I baptized two others. The papers 
took up what I had said on baptism and healing, which brought 
fifty or sixty letters, which, b}'' means of the answers, still farther 
scattered the good seed. We held several meetings in my 
daughter's house, which, I trust, bear some fruit to the glory of 
God. 

I had purposed returning to Baltimore, but the Lord led me to 
return to Lansingburgh, to which place I had been sent for, to go 
to Southampton to see Mrs. W., sick with two cancers. Soon after 
my arrival, she had a sinking spell, and her friends telegraphed to 
Chicago, for her husband to return immediately, as his wife was 
dying. Sister Orpha Warriner, of the Springfield faith home, was 
there also. We took the case direct to the Lord. When the 
husband reached home, she was sitting up, doing some light work, 
greatly to his surprise, as he expected to find her dead. Yet he 



130 LIFE SKETCHES OF 

insisted that she should continue to take morphine, which she did. 
She continued comfortable for a time, but was not healed and finallj^ 
died. Some effective work for the Master was done, however, aside 
from this. From Southampton, I went to Westfield, and labored for 
several sick ones, and then passed on to Springfield, Mass., where 
I labored several weeks, making my headquarters at the Faith 
Home kept by Sisters Rosa Ressar and Orpha \Yarriner, 668 
East Union street (now in another portion of the city). 
There a great many came to be prayed for, so that we could 
hardly get time to eat our meals. Quite a number took the 
faith and were healed. Three deaf people came and were prayed 
for, and it was apparent to all there that they could hear, but 
they were called away by unbelieving and irreligious friends, and 
I saw them no more. One man was healed of the dropsy, and 
gloriously saved. I was called to see a lady possessed by devils, 
bordering on insanity, beyond Boston, but have not learned the 
result of my visit to her. From Boston I went to Pittsfield, where 
I met Bro. Chas. M. Musgrove, with whom on my way out to 
Boston, I had spent one night. He was a leader among those 
who were contending " for the faith once delivered to the saints." 
I prayed for several and held one meeting with the faith people 
who were rather discouraged and weak. I felt that Bro. M. was 
greatly trammeled by the wealthy church to which he belonged, 
which, with other churches, was not in sympathy with faith work, 
and that had he had full liberty, he might have been a power in 
the faith work. I thanked God and took courage for .the great 
material aid rendered me in Massachusetts by way of clothing as 
well as money. One valuable gift, bestowed in Springfield, was a 
nice baptismal suit. 

In Springfield, I held a number of public meetings in a mission 
building, the sisters from the Faith Home uniting their labors 
with mine. The services were attended by the mighty power of 
God in conviction, salvation, and healing. One lady was healed 
in the congregation without coming forward. "We held meetings 
also in a hall where quite a number were reached. I found in 
Springfield a very intelligent and spiritual people and was strongly 
urged to remain among them. Some physicians came to me 
to be prayed for, and brought their patients to me. Quite a 
number of Christian Scientists came to be praj^ed for, and sat 
for hours and hours under our instruction, which they appeared 



ELDER W. G. RAYMOND. 131 

to receive. Some ministers also attended the meetings, and 
one, a Baptist, professed to accept the faith. At last a brother 
in Christ gave me the use of his church, for several weeks, all 
lighted, and then gave me the large collections at the close of the 
services. May God bless him and his familjM While there I 
baptized three in the Connecticut River, two of these were from 
the Congregational Church. Had God not seemed to be calling 
me from place to place, I should have been more disposed to 
locate in Springfield than any other place. I shall never forget the 
kindness of Bro. P.'s family > and many others, and the hospitality 
of the Faith Home, and the faithful co-labors of the Sisters, 
Orpha and Rosa. 

Nov. 12th, 1887, I returned to Lansingburgh and remained 
until December 5th, much of the time looking after correspond- 
ence, as unanswered letters had accumulated during my absence^ 
Nov. 27th, I baptized one lady onl}'. Dec. 5th, answered a call, 
to Fair Haven, Vt., to see a lady with a cancer. She had previ- 
ously been strong in faith and very active in Christian work ; 
claimed to have been once healed of a cancer, and to have failed 
in obejing the Lord regarding the line of service He pointed out for 
her, and thought that for her disobedience the hand of God was 
laid on her. Now I found she had no faith for healing, so I hesi- 
tated whether to offer prayer for healing, but was led to cast the 
devil out, and then did pray for her a number of times. She 
would be relieved each, but fall right back. I saw a very wrong 
element in the family. I was cordially received and entertained inj 
a lordly manner in the family of Sister Westcott who carried me- 
back and forth in a carriage to Sister L.'s. Mr. W., though not 
a professor of religion, was in full sj^mpath}^ with my work and 
offered the use of his camp ground if I would hold a convention there, 
and promised to be at my right hand. One of the family took me 
to see the Baptist minister at Hydeville, who received me courte- 
ously, and let me have his church in which to preach in the evening. 
The house was well filled. Friend W. took a number of carriages to 
carry all his household. (See a fuller account on another page.) 
The audience was very attentive until I commenced giving my 
experience of healing, when they began to appear very restless. 

Returned to Lansingburgh, Dec. 12th, and started for Jersey 
City, Dec. 14th, having previousl}^ engaged to labor a time there 
with my daughter, Mrs. Goldsmith. Immediately upon arriving 



132 LIFE SKETCHES OF 

there we commenced meetings in the Bethel ship, which had 
formerly been a California merchant vessel, but had been purchased 
b}^ the boatmen and fitted up as a church. A picture of it was 
in Frank Leslie's paper of April 7th, 1888. (An engraving of 
which will be found in this book.) The meetings were continued 
four or five weeks, every night until eleven o'clock. During all 
the time I preached the Gospel of healing for the body, as well as 
salvation for the soul. This novelty brought the people in from 
different directions, Brooklyn, New York, and Jersey City, besides 
those who came from the boats. The cases of healing in these 
meetings were too numerous to particularize, many of them 
marked and immediate, and nearlj- all received salvation, through 
faith in Christ, at the same time, or shortly after, until over one 
hundred souls were converted, quite a percentage of them captains 
of boats, including members of their families. All glory be to Jesus ! 
I baptized sixty-seven in New York Bay, near Mt. Zion Sanctuary, 
where we were received by Bro. and Sister Jackson, who showed 
us many courtesies, which we appreciated. We held two services 
in the Sanctuary, and two in the Chapel, and one on the pier by 
New York Bay, where I held an audience of fifteen hundred 
people, for nearly one hour, preaching, healing, and salvation 
through faith in Christ, and the ordinance of baptism. We laid 
hands upon those who were baptized, according to the Gospel 
order, asking the Lord to make messengers of them. 2 Cor. viii : 
23. The Lord added them to the church. When I left Jersey 
City there were 110 members in the Church of God, including the 
sixteen men I baptized. By invitation of Bro. Jackson, I held a 
meeting in his mission building, and was there between two and 
three weeks. There, also, as in the Bethel, the power of God 
was manifested to heal and save, about fifty children, and young 
people, were evidently saved. So far as I know, everj'thiug was 
harmonious between Bro. J. and myself, and he expressed a 
desire for me to remain longer in his mission. So also with Bro. 
Hancock, who was present at the Communion, and ofi[iciated with 
me at the close of my work in the mission, and offered me his 
church the next week if I desired it, but I chose to take parlors 
for services the balance of the time. So far as I know when I left, 
all united in desiring me to remain in the city. I officiated twice 
in Bro. Elsie's church and was cordially received by Bro. E., his 
wife, the pastor, and others. 



ELDER W. G. RAYMOND. 133 

We regretted to see the variance between those in the Elsie 
church and Bro. Hancock's. One feature of the mission ought to 
be mentioned ; that is, casting devils out of men who were so 
intoxicated they could hardly get to their seats. After the devil 
was cast out, they would be sober in ten or fifteen minutes, and 
some of them gave good evidence of being saved. 

It is with heartfelt gratitude that I remember the generous free- 
will offering of the boatmen, and the people of Jersey City, 
Brooklyn, and New York, also the assistance that Bro. Watson 
rendered at the baptismal services, and in other respects. I 
returned to Troy and Lansingburgh, May 8, 1888, under engage- 
ment to assist in moving the faith home from 250 3d Ave., to 42 
5th Ave., Lansingburgh, a much better location for the work, being 
just over the line between Troy and Lansingburgh, and the rooms 
on first floor and convenient for the work. After the rooms were 
settled, some pressing cases led me to defer returning to Jersey 
City, as soon as I otherwise would have done ; and while thus 
waiting, I was moved to resume writing the record of my life, 
which was commenced over one year ago. I returned to Jersey 
City, Jul}^ 28, 1888. During this time in Lansingburgh, I bap- 
tized five in the Hudson River, one May 9th, and four July 27th ; 
several were healed, one saved and some greatly quickened in 
their spiritual life. Among the cases of healing, one young 
woman was healed of a cancer, one of chronic rheumatism of 
many years' standing, one of a bad dog bite, and one raised up 
from a helpless paralytic condition. 

We give below a few special cases of healing at different times 
during our labors in Lansingburgh. Some have volunteered to 
give them in their own language. 

Some that were possessed of devils had the devils cast out. 
There was- one marked case of a lady who was possessed of a devil, 
and had taken morphine for years. The devil was first cast out, 
and then she asked us to pray that she might be delivered from 
the habit of taking morphine. The Lord very quickly delivered 
her entirely, and after that she testified that she felt like a new 
woman. This was over a year ago, and she has taken no morphine 
sinc€, and has all the time labored very hard. 



134 LIFE SKETCHES OF 

The German Woman. 

One morning while at family prayers in the Home, a little 
German boy came in and said they did not know but his grandma 
was dying, and wanted the minister to come in. I continued in 
prayer, and rebuked death that was taking hold of that woman. 
Immediately after prayer I went to the house designated, and 
found the lady in a dying condition, and appeared as though every 
breath might be her last. The only English word she seemed 
able to speak was minister, so I knew that words with her were 
useless, and must rely wholly upon the Holy Ghost to teach her 
and inspire her faith. I at once anointed her chest with oil in the 
name of the Lord. In a very few moments she was breathing 
perfectly natural and freely. I had again rebuked the hand of 
death in the name of Jesus, and the victory was ours. Both arms, 
and lower limbs, were useless from rheumatism of long standing, 
the fangs of which had fastened upon her heart and lungs, and 
would have ended life probably in less than an hour, but thanks be 
to God ! in less than an hour she was up and walking about the 
house. A few days after, on my third visit, she was assisting the 
washing, and has ever since done her own work as a well woman. 

Mrs. Rapp, another German woman, had been afflicted for 
years with rheumatism and other complaints, and had not been able 
to attend church of any consequence, for ten years. Sister M. had 
known her as a Christian woman of very simple faith, but had 
never talked with her on the subject of faith healing. One day 
she felt moved to go to her for this purpose, and asked me to 
go with her. We went and found her quite ill, and as we told her 
how others had been healed by Jesus, and showed her from the 
word that it was her privilege, she believed, so we anointed her 
and prayed for her, according to James. She was healed at once, 
so that the next Sunday she was able to take a long walk over a 
bad road and come to the meeting at the rooms, where she told her 
experience. This was in the winter of 1887, and she continues 
well and able to go long distances to meeting, and to attend to her 
domestic labors for a large family. 

July 24, 1888. 

With heart overflowing with gratitude to God, I desire to bear 
testimony to what Jesus has done for me. I am an old lady, sev- 
enty years old last April, for man}^ years have been a Christian, 
but have never been so intimately acquainted with Jesus as since 



ELDER W. G. RAYMOND. 135 

he has wonderfully revealed himself to me as the Healer of the 
body as well as the Saviour of the soul. I have passed through 
many very sad and bitter experiences, and for many years carried 
about a suffering body, — until one year ago last May, when the 
Lord wonderfully healed me. For twenty-five years I had suffered 
from time to time with rheumatism, sometimes laid up entirely for 
lour or five months at a time, so that I could not even turn myself. 
From these attacks of rheumatism, my fingers became permanent- 
ly stiffened, so that I could not close them, or bend them freely. 
I had had an internal tumor for nearly four years, and frequent spells 
of dizziness ; for thirty years could not bend my knees sufficiently 
to kneel, or bear my weight on my knees ; suffered so from heart 
burn and sour stomach, that almost everything I ate seemed to 
scald me almost like pepper, and I had no relish for food and ate 
so little that friends wondered how I could live on so little nour- 
ishment ; for forty years I had a rupture ; for eighteen years I 
had suffered greatly with chronic diarrhoea, the beginning of which 
was a severe attack of inflammation of the bowels, brought on by 
keeping my hands in ice water when caring for a very sick daughter, 
whose head was in such a condition that she had to have it contin- 
ually covered with cloths wet in ice water. Over forty years ago, 
my shoulder and elbow were put out of joint, by a wicked, abusive 
husband when in one of his angry drunken fits. When he saw what 
he had done he jerked the shoulder back in place, but could not the 
elbow, and it never went back until the Lord healed me ; so I could 
not straighten out my arm, but it was always at right angles, though 
able to move it from the shoulder. One year ago last spring I 
was infiuenced by my sister to attend meetings at Faith Rooms in 
Lansingburgh. As I listened to experiences and teachings given 
in faith healing, I believed that Jesus would heal me, and presented 
myself as a subject for prayer. I had at that time, in my heart, 
bitter feelings against my son-in-law, who had, by taking a false 
oath and bribery, defrauded me of my property. Bro. Raymond 
had no knowledge of this, but as the Spirit revealed my case \o 
him, he said, if I had enmity or an unforgiving spirit towards any 
cue I must give that up if I would be forgiven. I did then and 
there forgive in my heart, and gave up every feeling of enmity, and 
received a spiritual blessing. I was anointed with oil, according 
to James v : 14, 15, and while Bro. Raymond and Sister Mus- 
grove prayed for me, the healing power of Jesus went through my 



136 LIFE SKETCHES OF 

body, dissipating all my diseases. I had said nothing about my 
arm, and my faith had not grasped healing for that. As the Elder 
rose to his feet, I said, " If now I could have the use of that 
arm ! " He asked what the trouble was, and I told him. He 
touched the arm at the elbow, saj'ing, " My sister, you have the 
use of that arm," and immediately it straightened out, and has 
been just as well as the other ever since. Every one of m}^ diseases 
left me from that hour, and have not returned, and my fingers still 
move as of yore. To the praise of His dear name, I can say that 
the past year I have enjoyed better health than any previous year 
for fifty years, that is since I was a young lady. 

Margaret Percival, Lansingburgh, N. Y. 

I would add to the above that Sister Percival has for over one 
year done all the work of the kitchen, and had entire charge of the 
cooking in our home, besides doing considerable sewing, and is 
always happy in this service done " as unto the Lord." 

S. M. C. MUSGROVE. 



Green Island, N. Y., July 25, 1889. 

To the praise of His dear name I give my testimony of healing 
by Him who *' took our sicknesses " as well as " bore our sins." 
For nineteen years I was a hopeless invalid from a complication 
of female diseases, which baffled the skill of the best physicians. 
My husband spent hundreds of dollars for my medical treatment, 
but all of no avail. At last a physician told him that he might 
as well keep his money in his pocket, for no phj^sician could cure 
' me. I not only had the best physicians but tried every patent 
remedy that was recommended, but only to be disappointed. Six 
years out of the nineteen, I was confined to the bed. For nine 
years, I wore steel supporters, besides strap bandages, without 
which I could not even get around the house. During those nine- 
teen weary years, I was unable to meet with God's people in 
church, save once, as I could neither walk a few blocks or sit long 
enough in one position. Once I was taken in aii easy carriage 
and made as comfortable as possible that I might see my daugh- 
ter " buried with Christ in baptism." 

In the spring of 1887, I heard of Dr. Simpson's faith home in 
New York, and as my last hope began to make arrangements to 
go there, when an acquaintance called and said, "You need not 
go to New York, for Miss Musgrove has a faith home just over the 



ELDER W. G. RAYMOND. 137 

river, in Lansingburgh, and Elder Raymond is laboring there now 
and people are being miraculously healed. Very soon, I found my 
way to that home where I was instructed regarding taking Jesus as 
my Healer, but my faith was very weak, indeed, it seemed impossible 
to exercise faith for the healing of all ray diseases. Still, those in 
the home took m}^ case, by faith to Jesus, and I united with them, 
as well as I could, and Jesus answered bej^ond m}' faith. The first 
season of prayer, relief came, but I was not healed, at least I had 
not the evidence. Calls at the house were repeated, and each 
time I had some victory, but was still unable to claim hy faith my 
healing, and hold fast, regardless of symptoms, until I went and 
spent one week in the home, during which the victory came. One 
day I was almost completely discouraged, so that my faith seemed 
to grasp nothing scarcely, but oh ! how gracious was Jesus to me 
just then ! as he was to Thomas. In the meeting. He revealed him- 
self to me as the all-glorious but actually Present One. I saw him 
distinctly, standing before the desk while Sister Musgrove was there 
in praj'er. His appearance was more glorious than I can describe. 
He spread his hands out towards the people and spoke audibly to 
me, " This is my people. I am pleased with them." It seemed 
to me a number of minutes that this glorious vision of Himself 
held my raptured gaze. From that hour, Christ was to me a real 
personal presence, and my Saviour, my Healer; indeed, whatever 
I needed him for, and we have held sweet converse as friend with 
friend. Since then, he has been with me as I have gone to church, 
generally three times on Sundays ; has taken long walks with me ; 
has been with me as I have done my own house work, even taking 
care of my husband night and day for weeks, when very ill from 
injuries received in falling from the cars, even with me as I have 
done my washing and ironing. In all these exercises He has been 
my strength. If any sickness has threatened or come, my Physi- 
cian has been already by my side. To Him I have applied, and 
never in vain. Praise his hol}^ name ! 

My daughter May, too, has felt the healing touch of Jesus. 
For six years she had had serious trouble with her eyes on which 
account she was sometimes compelled to remain from school six 
months at a time. Finally, we took her to an occulist who said 
there had been a defect from birth and that she must wear glasses 
as long as she lived, and fitted glasses to her, but there was no 
perceptible improvement and her head became so affected that I 



138 LIFE SKETCHES OF 

was obliged to remove her from school entirely. Bro. Raymond 
anointed her eyes with oil in the name of the Lord, and prayed for 
her. The glasses were put away, her eyes recovered, and there 
has been no return of the difficulty. Her general health also, 
which was impaired, was restored. Praise his name ! 

Mrs. M. McHarg. 



Elder W. G. Raymond: — This is my testimony, for your book. 
To the above I joyfully testify, and add my own experience. 
It was in the interests of my wife, that I was first led to attend a 
faith meeting in Lansingburgh. I had no faith. What I heard 
regarding " Christ for the body " was new to me, and I could not 
receive it ; still regarding my wife's case as hopeless, I consented 
to have her go and ask for prayer, and accompanied her, but more 
to speculate, or act as a spy, than anything else. Soon, however, 
I felt that my unbelieving skeptical attitude was an embarrass- 
ment and hinderance to those laboring for her healing, and deter- 
mined to help, instead of hinder, what I could. Accordingly, I 
took Elder R. aside, and told him more particularly about my wife's 
case, and requested him to deal with it as he felt led. Soon after 
tliis she was healed, which led me to really believe, and as I had 
diseases, piles, backache, cough, — and a head trouble — I pre- 
sented my own case for prayer. Elder R. anointed me according 
to James, and prayed for me, and I was immediately healed. As 
the healing came, the Spirit showed me that, though for years a 
member of the Baptist Church, I was far from living a spiritual 
life, and was led to consecrate myself to the Lord more fully than 
ever before, and Jesus himself came to live in me as never before. 
Thus it has been also with my wife and daughter, as a family we 
are in a far deeper spiritual life than we had known before our 
healing. I must add also that I had used tobacco for twentj'-nine 
years ; had tried in vain to give it up, for I could not work with- 
out it. I asked prayer that I might be liberated from this bond- 
age and in a little ' ' after-meeting " Jesus gave the victory and 
removed the demand for the filthy weed, and since then I have had 
the privilege of presenting as a thank offering to the Lord, every 
month, the price of the tobacco, I formerly used. 

Still another experience nearly a year after my healing, I feel 
ought to be given. For months I was admonished and finally had 
a presentiment that I should be seriously injured by a fall. The 
question was presented to my mind, " What would you do if your 



ELDER W. G. RAYMOND. 139 

bones were broken? I answered, " I would take it to the Lord." 
April 21, 1888, I walked off backwards from a car I was tin- 
ning, not realizing I was so near the end. I have no recollection of 
anything for several days after that, but am informed I kept call- 
ing for Bro. R. and Sister M. to pray for rae. Had I had mj^ right 

mind, I certainly should have had no physician. Dr. was 

summoned and ordered whiskey and ether to be given me, under the 
influence of which he kept me nine days. The ninth day being Sun- 
day, prayer was offered for me in the faith meeting, under the 
promise, " If they take any deadly thing it shall not hurt them,'* 
that the effects of the whiskej'^ and the ether might leave me and 
m}^ right mind be restored and the bones quickly knit. That 
prayer was answered at once ; for my mind was restored and I had 
no pain after that. When first brought home, Bro. R. being gone. 
Sister M. was sent for. She came and prayed, and God answered 
the prayer in saving my life. While she was praying the Doctor 
entered on his second call and was very angry and declared he 
should not call again *' if that kind of foolery " was to go on, said 
his order was to have no more prayer offered unless by my pastor. 
Friends and relatives outside of my immediate family saw that his 
orders were obeyed, my wife being compelled to yield. 

The next morning after my mind was restored, the Doctor came 
and said I might discontinue the use of the whiskey and ether, 
This permission was useless, for I was then capable of acting for 
myself and determined to do so, and sent for Bro. Raymond. The 
first visit he made he rebuked the devil and said, "unloose this arm. 
The bones are knit.*' The second visit he prayed 1 might get off 
the bed, and I sat up and then got up. At the end of five weeks, 
the bandages were still on and Bro. R. took the responsibility in 
the name of Jesus of removing every wrapping, bandage, and 
plasters (for the Doctor had about covered me with them). I 
believe that my hand was thus saved from paralysis. From that 
hour, my recovery was so rapid that every one was astonished. 

The Doctor had said my collar bone was broken in six places, 
and that three ribs were broken ; that it would take from five to 
seven weeks for the bones to knit, and that it would certainly be 
three months before I could go to the shop again. I was also told 
that when the bandages, etc., should be removed the pain for a 
time would be worse than before. Instead of that I had no pain 
when they were removed and in six weeks I began to work, and 
have been working ever since. 



140 LIFE SKETCHES. 

I have ascertained by consulting skilful surgeons that the con- 
victions of Elder R. were correct. He said that the treatment 
was all wrong ; that it was a case of malpractice. 

G. W. McHarg. 



Troy, September 1st, 1888. 
Elder W. G. Raymond : 

I want to tell 3'ou, what the dear Lord has done for me, but He 
has done so much of late that I hardly know where to com- 
mence. He has healed me, praise His name ! healed me after 
suffering more than twenty-six j^ears with rheumatism which 
I contracted while in the late war. I have proved by dif- 
erent affidavits sent to the Pension Department, that I have, 
on this account, been obliged to give up my trade sixteen years, 
been totally disabled two-thirds of the time since the war, 
ago, and have never been able to do anything at it since. Many 
times, I have been perfectly helpless, unable even to feed myself, 
or touch my feet to the floor for months at a time. I had given up 
all hopes of ever recovering, when I heard of Sister Musgrove's 
faith meetings from different ones who had been healed at the 
faith rooms. I went there with my famil}^, to one of her meet- 
ings, and heard her and Bro. Raymond talk about faith healing, 
and they made it so plain and so reasonable that I made up my 
mind it was for me ; so I went again, when ihey anointed my head 
with oil, and asked the Lord to heal me, and He did it, Praise His- 
Holy Name ! I have not used a crutch or a cane since, and am 
now earning my living and supporting my family b}^ walking, for 
I am a collector for an insurance company, and am on my feet nearly 
all the time, and feel perfectly well. Since the dear Lord healed 
me, Bro. Raymond has baptized my entire family. Since I went 
down into the Hudson River with Bro. R. singing, 

" I'm believing and receiving, while I in the river go," 

I have been getting stronger every day — stronger physically and 

spiritually. 

I've found a friend in Jesus 
And He's everything to me, 

even my Healer, Praise His Name ! I am happy, healed and 
saved. Reader are 2/o^* healed? are you saved? If not, come to 
the Great Physician. Elisha C. Patch. 



Chapter X. 




How I WAS Led to Resist and Cast Out Devils, Special 

Cases, Overcoming bt Testimony and Prayer, Shaking 

THE Dust from My Feet. 



ASTING out Devils through Christ's name. — Luke 
ix: 1. I had always felt and believed that Satan 
had mighty power, and that he was the great 
opposing force to the advancement of Christ's king- 
dom, but did not see what power over him was 
bequeathed to us by Jesus, and thought he could 
not be overcome until the millennium. After I was 
healed, I noticed that his attacks were more direct, defiant, and 
persistent, and as he resisted Christ, so he seemed to resist me, at 
every step of my ministrj- in his service, but the Holy Spirit 
showed me more and more " the wiles of the devil," and through 
what instrumentalities he operated, not simply human instru- 
mentalities — and how to successfully resist his power. As I was 
holding a special meeting at Queenstown, D. C, I was very much 
annoyed one night by the barking and fighting of dogs, of which, 
there seemed to be upwards of twenty. It was in the middle of 
the night. I went down to drive them away, but this only seemed 
to excite them all the more. I returned to my room in despair, 
thinking I would have a sleepless night. As I threw myself on 
my bed again, a voice seemed to say, "Why do you not pray, and 
rebuke the devils in the dogs ! " I fell on my knees and rebuked 
the devils in the dogs, and asked the Lord to drive them away. 
As I repeated the words, *'Lord, rebuke the devils in the dogs 
and drive them away," within one minute every dog's mouth was 
closed, and I heard no more barking that night. 

At another time I was preaching at Sister Perry's Hall on K 
street, Washington, D. C. Several hundred boys that had grown 
up on the street, were on the sidewalk front of the hall, laughing, 



142 LIFE SKETCHES OF 

swearing, smoking, and throwing in pebbles, etc., and by tlieir 
conduct tiireatened to break up the meeting. Suddenly, 1 knelt 
down and prayed, " Lord, rebuke the devils in those boys and keep 
them quiet," and repeated it. They quieted down immediately, 
and I went right on, and finished my sermon without interruption. 

At one time when living at Bro. Main's, on 14th and Samson 
streets, the dogs set up a terrible howl about four o'clock, a. m., 
about the same as at Queenstown. It was just the time I wanted 
to sleep. I said, '' Lord, rebuke the devils in those dogs and quiet 
them down." I repeated it. It seemed only a moment before 
every dog was quiet, and I slept sweetly, for two or three hours. 
At the breakfast table a lady said, " I never was so surprised in 
my life as I was this morning. It seemed as if every dog in the 
city was barking so I could not sleep, but in half a minute every 
sound of them was hushed." I said, '' That was the time I 
rebuked the devils in those dogs." She smiled, but said nothing. 

At another time, I was holding meetings on H street, near 7th, 
in a large hall, and the Catholic boys and Jew boys would assem- 
ble right front of the hall and play. It seemed as though there 
were over fifty. They would run up the stairway and then down, 
making all the noise they could, intending to disturb the meeting. 
There were quite a number of noted people in the meeting criticising 
my work. As I went on my knees facing the east, A street being 
south of us, I raised my right hand unsconsciously, and prayed, 
" Lord, rebuke the devils in those boys, and send them out from 
this street." I repeated the praj^er. Then, as others afterwards 
told me, I moved my hand towards 7th street, and the boys 
moved right off, as fast as my hand moved. This was observed 
and commented upon by the entire congregation. Thus the idea 
was given me, and confirmed in my mind, that it was the devils 
operating in the dogs and in the boys, instead of the dogs or boys 
of themselves. 

At another time, we were going down the river from Baltimore 
to Rock Creek, in Bro. March's boat to baptize some candidates, 
holding a meeting in the boat as we went down. When part waj^ 
there, there came up a terrible gale. It was thought by nearly all 
that the boat would capsize. The passengers began to faint and 
tremble ; even old sailors had fears of safety. Without any pre- 
meditation, I fell on my knees before God, and said, " Lord, 
rebuke Satan in wind and waves and let there be a calm." I 



ELDER W. G. RAYMOND. 143 

repeated it before all the people. In five minutes the boat was 
moving quietly as before the gale. 

Another time, I was coming up from Deal's Island, in a large 
steamer of the Maryland line. It was in the night. I had just 
closed religious services held in the cabin, with the permission and 
approval and presence of the Captain. The Captain, and some of 
the passengers, came to talk with me about the faith work after 
che others had retired, when one of these heavy gales came from off 
the sea, tipping the boat so that one wheel could not do execu- 
tion. The passengers were falling on the floor all over the cabin 
ind A^omiting. We were on the deck when the gale struck us. 
The Captain turned to me saying, '" Elder, if this gale keeps on, 
we shall need some praying here, or we shall never see Baltimore. 
It is the worst gale I have seen in forty years." While he with his 
men were getting the passengers into their staterooms, I went back 
midway of the vessel, and, sitting down, I said, " Lord, rebuke 
Satan in this gale," and it seemed as though the vessel rocked 
worse. I said, " Lord, quiet the winds, and protect this vessel." 
It seemed as if the vessel would come to pieces at that time. I 
then rebuked the devil in the name of Jesus Christ. In five 
minutes the boat was moving on smoothly. The next morning 
the boat looked as though she had been on a passage to Europe. 

The first time we went down the bay, I believe the Captain 
commanding the vessel was neglecting his duty. It was a very- 
foggy night, and the vessel ran out of the channel on to a sand bar. 
For some five or six hours it remained there, with full head of 
steam to back out, but failed. In the morning we proposed prayer 
and went down before the Lord, and pra3'gd that he would lift the 
vessel oflT. In five or ten minutes the boat was moving. As we 
proceeded, the fog was so thick that the boat would have to halt 
every time we met a group of oyster boats. We went down before 
the Lord in prayer and asked Him to lift the fog so we could meet 
our engagement in Sharptown, and immediately went on deck. As 
we went up the clouds were parting, and in a few minutes the sky 
was clear. I rode once after that on the same boat from Sharp- 
town to Vienna, a distance of ten miles, and rebuked the devils all 
the time I was on the boat, but saw no result, for it seemed as 
though the devils had their own way there. Never after that 
would I ride on that boat. 



144 LIFE SKETCHES OF 

At one time, I was holding a meeting in the grove near the 
river at Crotcher's Ferry, and the wind and the devils sent in a 
swarm of mosquitoes. One night when I went into the meeting the 
mosquitoes were moving around the people as thick as bees when 
swarming, and everyone was using a bough or something to keep 
them from their faces. I saw this would break up my meeting 
unless the Lord should come to our rescue. I went down on my 
knees and prayed, " O, Lord, you know I cannot hold the meet- 
ing with this swarm of mosquitoes here. O, Lord, rebuke the 
devils in these mosquitoes and send them where they belong (they 
had been driven by the wind from Mosquito Point), and relieve 
the people so they can have the Gospel to-night." As I arose to 
commence m^^ sermon, the mosquito brash was all laid aside 
and everything quiet and no mosquitoes disturbed me. Only 
occasionally one in the congregation sought to defend themselves 
or needed to do so. Still the mosquitoes remained in the neighbor- 
hood to attack the children who ventured out doors to play, and 
they would go into the house crying because of their wounds. 

A few days after, I was moved to rebuke the devils and ask the 
Lord to send them from the neighborhood. This was the meeting 
in the evening. In the morning, there came a strong current of 
wind swept them nearly all away, so we had no more trouble from 
them in the several weeks we remained there. I suppose they 
were driven to Mosquito Point. There a little boy went after his 
cow, and they literally killed him. When found, his eyes and 
ears and nose v^ere filled with them. One night during the same 
meeting, a storm came up, in the appearance of a cyclone, it 
thundered and lightened fearfully, and as the sprinkling came, I 
knelt down and said, " Lord, rebuke the devils in this storm. 
Stop it. Lord, stop it now, and turn it in another direction. We 
are not prepared for it here." The storm was turned at once, and 
no one was discomforted by it. The whole congregation remarked, 
''Isn't that wonderful! Did you ever see anything like that? " 
Can any one dispute that the Lord gives us power over devils? 
The devil is " the prince of the power of the air." Eph. ii : 2. 

While I was holding a meeting at Deal's Island in a Methodist 
Church, where there are millions upon millions of mosquitoes, 
they entered the church and took possession before the congrega- 
tion gathered. I was moved to rebuke the devils in the mosqui- 
toes and asked the Lord to remove this plague from off the Island. 



ELDER W. G. RAYMOND. 145 

Even the church people were surprised to hear such a prayer, and 
said they had possession of the island before man came there. 
The next night I said in my prayer, *' Lord, you can excuse the 
mosquitoes from going, as ithe people think they have a right here, 
but. Lord, keep them from stinging me while on the island, for I 
look upon them as a nuisance and a great plague." The people 
watched me closely, and they did not see a mosquito lodge on me 
during the entire meeting of a number of weeks, and wondered 
how it could be, for while the Lord defended me from them, the 
people were annoj^ed all the time, day and night. Just as I left 
the island, one stung me on the hand, as if a bee stung me, and it 
seemed as if the devil said, " Take that and go on." Sister Perry 
and a brother with me, laughed heartily and said, " Well, you've 
got one sting anyhow," but I put a little oil on in the name of 
Jesus, and the sting left in a minute. 

The many cases in my experience of casting out devils are too 
numerous to give in detail in this work, for I believe it would come 
up to thousands, some of which are very marked and wonderful. I 
am usually led first to resist the devil, the same as I would dogs 
that might act as though they would bite me. The first time 
that the words came to me, " Lord, rebuke the devil," in the 
power of the Holy Ghost, was the case of a lady taken from a 
Washington Hospital, over four years ago. This woman had been 
insane thirteen years under the full power of a silly devil. At the 
suggestion of Ethan O. Allen, of Massachusetts, she was released 
from the hospital for ten days with his promise that he would 
stand b}' us while we labored in her behalf. She was taken to the 
house of Sister M. A. Perry. The second day that Bro. Allen 
called, the devil would laugh him right in the face, and only stop 
as I rebuked him. He said, " Bro. Raj'mond, there is no use of 
my staying any longer ; the Holy Ghost has given you the com- 
mand. If you hold on you will get the victory. You will please 
excuse me, and I will return home. So Sister Perry, I, and the 
lady's mother, continued the case. Dr. Clift came down one day, 
and while he was praying the devil seized his throat, and it was 
one hour before he got released. He then returned and attempted 
to pray again, when the devil continually laughed him in the face. 
Feeling indignant, he said, " You would laugh Jesus Christ, right 
in the face." The devil seized him b}" the throat, and he retired 
wounded from the battle. He told me the next day that he 
10 



146 LIFE SKETCHES OF 

believed had he attempted to pray again, the devil would have 
choked him to death, for he and his wife labored till night before 
he got release. Sister Perry and I fasted five days, one meal a 
day. The fifth night, the devils refused to obey the command of 
Sister Perry, and I thought best for me to tarry that night, and I 
purposed, in Christ, to get the victory before I slept, but until 
twelve o'clock no victory seemed to be gained, and the devils 
seemed to be breaking away from my command, and to be let loose 
upon her, as if they would take her bodily down to hell. I stepped 
up by the bed, and under the power of the Holy Ghost, as I 
brought my right hand down close to her face, said authorita- 
tivel}^, " The Lord rebuke thee, Satan, Jude ninth verse, repeating 
it again for nearly half an hour. Zechariah iii : 1, 2. " And he 
showed me Joshua the high priest standing before the angel of 
the Lord and Satan standing at his right hand to assist him. And 
the Lord said unto Satan the Lord rebuke thee, O Satan ; even 
the Lord that has chosen Jerusalem rebuke thee : is not this a 
brand plucked out of the fire?" My voice becoming more power- 
ful with each command. Every dog in that section was barking 
to the highest pitch. At last, suddenly, the devils obeyed, and 
I believe there was a legion of devils come out of her and filled 
the room, and the order came to me, " Lord, bind them and con- 
vey them to the lower regions, and never let them enter another 
human being on earth." This order has never been changed. In 
a few minutes they left the room, and we realized it the same, as 
though the room had been filled with suflTocating gases or smoke, 
and had been suddenly expelled. We all (the lady included) slept 
well the remainder of the night, and until late in the morning. 
She then arose and dressed herself. I noticed that she wanted 
to go to her mother, though previously she hated her intensely. 
I said, " Lizzie, go to j^our mother, if you wish." She went to her, 
got into her lap, hugged and kissed her, and sat there half an 
hour, then happy and cheerful, went with all of us to breakfast. 
She seemed like a young child lacking in intelligence. The next 
day Sister P. and I anointed her head with oil, and laid hands on 
in the name of the Lord, testing the promise. " You shall lay 
hands on the sick and they shall recover." Mark xvi : 18. We 
kept our hands on over five hours, and her brain was wonderfully 
renewed, so much so that her will power came up like a child that 
had been petted, and as if she had had her own way for thir- 



ELDER W. G. RAYMOND. 147 

teen j^ears. Her mother wanted her to change her new calico 
dress she had on and go to see a wealthy relative, and she said, 
" No, Ma, I don't see any sense in changing dresses all the time. 
This dress suits me, and if my relatives don't like it, I can't help 
it." She would not yield the point, so her mother would not go. 
The last time I saw her mother, she told me the doctor said her 
daughter was improving. 

The next implement of defence against the devil, that the Lord 
gave me under the Holy Ghost, was " the sword of the Spirit," 

the Word of God. Miss Lizzie had been possessed of devils 

for thirteen years. I, with several others, was invited to see her. 
Ethan O. Allen had labored in her behalf for ten days, but the 
devils still held possession of her. One great trick of the devil 
was to throw her feet and head back, as if he would form a circle 
with her bod^', if she attempted to get up. We had had a season 
of pra3'er, in which a number had united, and to all appearances 
without any victory. As two of the sisters stood near the head, 
I was led under the Holy Ghost, to raise my right hand, as if a 
sharp sword was in it, with which I was about to slay a serpent. 
I brought it down very near her body, though I do not think she 
saw the hand or felt the touch as it came down — yet she jumped 
as if hit with a sword, and turned partially over. Blow after 
blow I gave, until the devils left, and I realized legions of them,, 
and after this Lizzie remarked to Sister Perry, " The room is full 
of devils." I said,'' Now Lizzie, get up quickly." Sister Perry- 
and another sister moved rapidly, and helped to get her feet from 
the bed, while others raised their hands as if to stop me, but I 
only heeded the movings of the Spirit. Lizzie rose to her feet; 
with our help. The devils undertook as before, to throw her head 
and feet back. I rebuked them sharply in the name of the Lord, 
and the}' stopped. I then said, " Now Lizzie, take my arm," and 
we walked to and fro in the double parlors. As we walked she- 
said, "Elder Raymond, is not this glorious?" I said, " Yes, yoa 
may praise the Lord as much as you like." Then she walked by 
herself, praising the Lord. We went into the dining-room and 
back. The next day, I said, " Now Lizzie I want you to dress 
yourself and we will walk out on the street." She said, " I have 
no dress, and never expected I would need one, I have been sick 
so long." Her mother, however, obtained a dress for her, and she 
with a number of us walked out. We walked about a square and 
a half, when we called to pray for a man sick with consumption, 



148 LIFE SKETCHES OF 

and she laid on hands with us. G-oing back she walked most of 
the way by herself. We went down to the dinner table with her, 
and sang for the blessing '' Praise God from whom all blessings 
flow.'* As she sat at the table " clothed and in her right mind" 
one would not have looked upon her as an invalid. '' Put on the 
whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the 
5viles of the devil. For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, 
but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the 
-darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places." 
Eph. vi : 11, 12. " For the word of God is quick, and powerful, 
and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the divid- 
ing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and 
is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart." Heh, 
iv: 12. 

1 wish to relate an incident that occurred in the office of the 
Maryland Steamboat Co. I stepped up to a man and asked, '' Is 
this Mr. Ensign (I think that was the name) the president of the 
company?" He answered, " Yes, what can I do for you, sir?" 
*' I came to see if I could get a pass to go to Deal's Island." "Who 
are you?" "I am Elder W. G. Raymond." " The faith healer?" 
" Yes, sir, if you please." " Why do you ask for a pass? " " I 
am a clergyman." " No, sir, we do not give passes to clergymen ; 
they are the best paid men in the city, and with their salaries they 
can well pay their fares." "I am in the faith work and have no 
salary or income, except free will offerings from the people of God 
or others. I visit the sick and afflicted people of the city without 
money or price." '' I regret to say. Elder, we do not handle that 
kind of freight." (The clerks and gentlemen by his side all 
smiled.) " I am in a position to read human nature, and we see 
a good deal of it in the line of our business, and I don't know 
what I do believe." I then related a little sketch of my experi- 
ence of healing, and how the Lord had used me since my healing, 
and I thought I saw tears in their eyes. Then I said, " I'll spend 
a moment in prayer with you, and knelt down and prayed : " Oh 
Lord, have mercy on these men, and don't let them go blindfolded 
into hell. Protect the vessel that I am going on, and allow no 
accident to occur." As I arose, I shook hands and said, " Good- 
bye, gentlemen, may God Almighty have mercy on you." The 
President said, as he commenced writing, "Hold on a minute Elder, 
I will take a little stock in this meeting of yours," and wrote me 
a pass to go and return, for twenty days. Having understood I 



ELDER W. G. RAYMOND. 149 

was to baptize some before I returned, he added, " Elder, I know 
the people down there better than you do. It would be just as 
well if, when you get some of them under the water, they should 
remain under.'* On my way back, I thought I would get permis- 
sion from the Captain to hold a meeting on the boat. Not sup- 
posing he knew me, I said, " Captain, are you willing I should 
hold religious services on this boat?" He answered, *' Yes, Elder 
Raymond. Any minister who will go into our office and preach a 
sermon and offer a prayer for Ensign, can have an}^ religious privi- 
lege he desires on this boat, and I shall consider it a privilege to 
be present. I found the President had reported the office experi- 
ence with me all through his line of boats. After holding relig- 
ious services for about one hour, to a large congregation of first 
class passengers on their way to Baltimore, on the night trip from 
Delaware, the Captain and all the hands that could be spared 
being present, great interest was manifested in the subject of 
God's power to heal the body. After the meeting closed, I was 
interviewed by a large number of ladies, the Captain being pres- 
ent. Up to this time the evening had been unusually fine, so 
much so that we went outside of the cabin to seat ourselves, where 
we spent a half hour in asking and answering questions, when the 
devils got mad at the interest manifested in God's power. Almost 
instantly a cyclone from the gulf stream struck the boat, lifting 
the right hand wheel out of water. The passengers commenced 
vomiting and falling from their chairs in fainting fits. The Cap- 
tain suddenly rushed to my side, and whispered, " Elder, we shall 
have to have some mighty praying, if we ever see Baltimore. I 
have been on these waters forty years, and I never witnessed such 
a storm before." I left the crowd and went as near the center of 
the boat as I could, to be alone with God. I rebuked the satan in 
the storm three times, in the name of the Father, the Son, and the 
Holy Ghost. Immediately the storm ceased, and the boat righted 
and went on its way, while the passengers went to their staterooms 
and slept soundly all night. 

" For he commandeth and raiseth the stormy wind, which lifteth 
up the waves thereof. The}' mount up to the heaven, they go 
down again to the depths : their soul is melted because of trouble. 

They reel to and fro and stagger like a drunken man, and are 
at their wit's end. 

Then they cry unto the Lord in their trouble, and He bringeth 
them out of their distresses. 



150 LIFE SKETCHES OP 

He maketh the storm a calm, so that the waves thereof are still. 

Then they are glad because they be quiet : so He bringeth them 
into their desired haven. Oh that men would praise the Lord for 
His goodness and his wonderful works to the children of men." 
Psa. cvii; 25-31. 

*' And whosoever shall not receive you, nor hear 3'ou, when ye 
depart thence, shake off the dust under your feet for a testimony 
against them. Verily I say unto you, it shall be more tolerable 
for Sodom and Gomorrah in the day of judgment, than for that 
oity." Mark vi : 11. 

The Lord has led me sometimes to shake off the dust from my 
feet for a testimony against some, and quick judgments have fol- 
lowed. 

While holding meetings for four months on H. Street, near 7th 
Street, Washington, D. C, wishing to reach the poor and afflicted 
people, without charge, I called upon the proprietors of the four 
leading newspapers, to see if they would reduce the price of adver- 
tizing for me. First, I called on one of the managers of the 
Critic, and laid the matter before him. He said, " Elder, we 
would like to accommodate you, but I don't feel at liberty to grant 
your request." " Well," I replied, '' you will have to settle it 
with the Lord." I then went to the office of the Republican, a 
paper with which I had been acquainted since the beginning of 
the war. The answer there was, " No, we can't show you any 
partiality. If people employ you, let them pay for it, then you'll 
be able to pay for advertizing." *' I said, *' Look over your old 
files during the war, especially while I was in command of the 
Provost Guard of the city, when you came to me for columns of 
aiews which I gave you, until I felt bored with the burden. Now 
jou wont do anything for the cause I represent, but your reporters 
will go out after some smutty case, and report columns in that line 
without pay." As I left them I said, " You'll have to settle it 
with the Lord." The next paper I called on was the Post. There 
in substance the same reply was given. The fourth paper was the 
Star. They were in their new building. I saw one or two whom 
I supposed to be the managers of the paper. One of them said, 
■*' Elder, you would have to pay as much as the Calvary Baptist 
Church." (one of the richest churches in the city.) I said, '' I do 
not ask this for myself. I represent the poor and afflicted people, 
and you will have to settle it with the Lord." I shook the dust 
from my feet, as I went out from the offices, feeling not the least 



ELDER W. G. RAYMOND. 151 

malice or ill will towards them. One day, soon after this, when I 
was in the hall waiting for the evening meeting, as some one had 
brought me a lunch, so that I did not have to leave the hall, the 
fire bells rang. Some of the compan3' went down, but I did not 
feel drawn to go. I felt sad, for I knew that some one would suf- 
fer. In the course of an hour, they returned and said, " Elder, 
the Critic, the office, press and all are burned up, and the Repub- 
lican, with press and all are gone, and the new Post building, all 
three burned up ! " I felt sad, and yet I had been moved to shake 
the dust from my feet as I left those offices. When the congrega- 
tion gathered, I was moved to say in the public meeting, without 
premeditation, but in referring to the three presses, " Now let the 
proprietors of the Star go down on their knees before God, for he 
will visit them next." If my memory serves me, within a month 
or thereabouts, that building was burned and, as I was informed, 
$40,000 worth of presses. I asked a lawyer, an unconverted man, 
if he thought this was accidental or providential. He said, " If I 
was a believer in religion, I should certainly say providential." 
. Last summer while I was in Elmira holding meetings, and visit- 
ing the sick, and had occasion to baptize some, one of the papers 
sent a little stripling as a reporter, to a parlor meeting, and he put 
into the paper a shameful and ridiculous report. I was inclined 
several times to see the proprietors of this paper and ask that it 
be corrected, but finally took it to the Lord and asked him to cor- 
rect it. I called at another office on the same street and asked 
the proprietor to put in a notice of my meeting and baptismal ser- 
vice for the following Sunday. At first, he was very gentlemanly 
and said he would, but when he found I was in the faith work, he 
said," No, I won't have anything to do with it," and turned away, 
as if he had been insulted. As I went out, I wiped the dust from 
my feet, as I also had done against the other paper, when I de- 
cided to let the Lord correct it. While I was holding my meet- 
ings last spring in Jersey City, I noticed in a daily paper an 
account of the burning of both these presses. " Vengeance is 
mine, 1 will repay saith the Lord." Since then I have never solic- 
ited a notice of my meetings, but on the other hand have asked 
the Lord to keep away the reporters, until they shall be led to give 
a truthful report. Some papers have given a truthful report, for 
which I am thankful to God. I have a conviction that this work 
is not to be trifled with by the secular press. 



Chapter XI. 




The Word Elder, Its Origin and Use ; Divine and Faith 

Healing ; the Blood op Christ Deposited in 

THE Holiest of Holies. 



ND a little child shall lead them. And the sucking^ 
child shall play on the hole of the asp, and the 
weaned child shall put his hand on the cockatrice's 
den (a stinging serpent whose breath or look was 
fatal), Isaiah^ xi : 6-8. 

I wish now to relate some incidents which illus- 
trate the simplicit}^, but power of faith in little 
children. In Laurel, Del., a three-year-old daughter of Bro. 
Baker, was very ill with fever all night. In the morning, as 
her father brought her down in his arms wrapped up, she 
consented to let me lay hands on her and pray, I said, " Now, 
little daughter, you are healed." She began to throw off the 
wrappings. Her father said, " Oh, no, you know you were 
so sick last night." She looked up in his face and said, " I 
am coored. Didn't you hear Broder Raymond say I was coored ? 
Now put on my dress." She was dressed, and played that day 
perfectly well. Soon after this she brought her little doll with its 
arm broken off, to her papa, and said, " See, papa, dolly's arm is 
broken, but when Broder R. comes he'll coore it." The grandma 
brought it to me when I came in, and said something must be done 
so that child will not lose her faith. I asked if she had any glue, 
and she said j'es. I put a little glue on but it did not stick, and 
as I put it together again, I said, " In the name of the Lord, I put 
this together," and it adhered. When the doll was handed to the 
child she ran to her pa, and said, " See here, pa, didn't I tell 3^ou 
Broder Raymond could coore chillin's arm?" The grandmother 
said, " That child has more faith than the whole family beside." 
Another little child in Baltimore, not three years old, but who had 



ELDER W. G. RAYMOND. 153 

heard something about the faith work, stepped up to the grandma 
who had been ill some time, and said, " Don't you believe Jesus 
can cure 3'ou, grandma? " " Yes, child," answered the grandma. 
The little one then prayed the Lord to heal her grandma, and 
immediately asked, "Grandma, do you believe it?" "Yes, 
child," was the answer. "Then," said he, "Get up and go 
about 3"our business," and she did get up, and said she felt relieved 
at once. 

Sister B. was afflicted with fits in which she usuall}^ lay a long 
time, before coming to her senses. One night when taken with a 
fit, her little son woke up and going at once to her, laid his hands 
upon her and praj'ed for her. The fit passed off at once, and she 
slept well the balance of the night. This was related to me by 
the boy's grandfather, Bro. Marsh. 

The son of Capt. Hale}^ a boy eight years old, was saved, I 
believe, before his parents thought of being Christians. Just as 
they were going to eat a meal, he said, " Hold on a minute, pa, 
I have a blessing to say," and then asked a blessing. This struck 
a deep conviction to the hearts of the parents, and the}" were soon 
gloriously saved ; also their two daughters, and they have now a 
household of faith, all of whom I baptized last spring in the New 
York bay. 

One day this little boy under temptations felt and manifested a 
naughty spirit, and told his father to ask me to cast the devil out of him. 
I did so. One day after this, as his father noticed that he was again 
yielding to temptation, he said, " What's the matter of you, my 
bo}^?" The little fellow answered, "The devil has got hold of 
me." "But," said the father, "I thought Elder R. cast him 
out. " Well," said the boy, " He did attempt it, but Fm afraid he 
made a bad job of it." 

At one time, I had an engagement in Vienna, ten miles from 
Sharptown. When at Sharptown, I was under the necessity of 
engaging a little skiff with a heavj'- sail, two wicked men having 
charge of it. Just as we came down to the boat, little Willie 
Perry, " the young prophet," as we called him, said " Ma, I ain't 
donty do in that boat." "Yes, you will, Willie." No, I ain't 
donty do in that boat. Ma," and started for the house. His 
mother stopped him and asked, " Willie, why don't you want to 
go?" He answered, "Why, ma, the boat will go wound, and 
wound, and wound, and down, but it will come up again." Still, 



154 LIFE SKETCHES OF 

the mother persuaded him to go, but I think, had I known what 
Willie said, I should have been unwilling to go. In the boat were 
three heavy men, two ladies, two boys, and considerable baggage, 
and the boat was not more than eighteen inches above the water 
when we got in. The wind was high and the river rough. We kept 
as near shore as we could, for the men said there was not one on 
the boat that could swim, should the boat go under. We went safely 
until we came within a hundred rods of Vienna, where the river 
was wide and the waves high, when the wind took the sail and the 
vessel was carried into the middle of the river, taking a circle of a 
quarter of a mile. During this time, without turning my eyes to 
the left, or the right, or behind me, I held on to the sides of the 
vessel, while I looked continuall}^ to Christ for help, and tried to 
keep the boat balanced. The Lord did bring us all safely to land. 
The prophesy was fulfilled to the letter, for the boat went down as 
far as it would without going to the bottom. To show that Willie 
was a prophet — while at Sharptown, at the house of Sister Owens, 
holding meetings just previous to the last incident, he came to me 
one morning after we had a season of prayer, and said, " Broder 
Waymond (for he could not talk plainly) there is doing to be a 
gray headed man conwerted to-day." *' Thank the Lord, Willie," 
I said. Sister Owens remarked to me, " Mark that. God is in 
that.'' Willie went away and had another season of prayer; then 
came again and said, " Broder Waymond, there is doing to be 
two grayheaded men conwerted to-night." " Praise the Lord, 
Willie ; all the better," I replied. That day we spent visiting the 
people at their houses. In the evening, as I entered the parlor 
where the meetings were held, it was nearly filled, and I looked 
about to see if there were two gray headed men there. Yes, 
there indeed, were two gray headed men who had never before 
been in the meeting. Having preached the sermon, I said, " Are 
there any here desiring salvation to-night? If so, raise your 
hand." Immediately McWilliams, one of the gray headed men 
raised his hand. I said, "There is one more here," when the 
other raised his hand. Both were gloriously saved that night. 
McWilliams became at once very active in the service of Christ, 
and the Methodists licensed him as an exhorter. The next morn- 
ing, Willie came up while we were at the breakfast table and said, 
"Broder Waymond, there is doing to be a young man conwerted, 
this morning.'' We all exclaimed, "Praise the Lord, Willie." 



ELDER W. G. EAYMOND. 155 

Before rising from the table, there came in a noble looking young 
man, tears rolling down his cheeks, as he said, " Elder Raymond, 
I am a great sinner and I want you to pra}^ for me." We did so, 
and he was soon rejoicing in Christ. 

This little boj^ said one time, " Ma, I see Jesus." Being asked 
how Jesus looked, he replied, *' Just like heaven." At one time 
in the faith home, the treasury was low and we were short of pro- 
visions, but we did not know that Willie knew anj'thing about it. 
At a public meeting in the evening, he offered prayer, as he 
had done at other times. In this prayer he said, " O, Lord, 
you know we have not much in the house now, and the money is 
all gone. Now, Lord, don't let the people just give a penny. 
You know, Lord, there are so many people that just give a penny. 
Tou tell them to give a dollar." I need not say that the contri- 
bution was greatly enlarged that night, and the next day pro- 
visions came in. When he would pray, his countenance would so 
light up, that it would seem like, as it really was, the very light of 
heaven, and he would be lost to everything about him, as he 
talked with God. I baptized him before he was five years old. 
He is now South with his mother, who is laboring there as an 
evangelist, and from time to time, we hear from him, that he is 
still an earnest little Christian, with the same simple faith. 

Chelsea, May 27th, 1891. 
I feel moved of the Lord to say a few words to those who may 
peruse this book, why I do not wish the word Reverend attached 
to my name, as it occurs only in Psalms cxi : 9, "Holy and 
Reverend is His name," and it should only be attached to the 
Almighty, but the term Elder is a gospel term ; it originated 
anciently to designate the eldest son, or the ruling person in 
in the family, and it was recognized in the Jewish Church 
as one of the oflScials, and is frequently referred to in the 
New Testament; you will find in Acts, xiv : 23, "They were 
instructed by the Holy Ghost to ordain Elders in every 
church;" this has reference to the household churches. "Or- 
dained Elders in every city." Titus, i : 5. "By faith the Elders 
obtained a good report." Heb. xi:2. "Is any sick among 
you, let him call for the Elders of the church, and let them 
pray over him, anointing him with oil, in the name of the Lord." 
And the prayer of faith shall save the sick, and the Lord shall 



156 LIFE SKETCHES OF 

raise him up, and if they have committed sins, they shall bfr 
forgiven him. James v : 14-15. This shows that they had a. 
plurality of Elders in the household churches of God. I claim, 
that the Lord gave me the title of Elder when he healed me. I 
also feel moved to call attention to the word divine. The most 
direct reference is made in the Second Epistle of Peter i : 3-4. 
My prayer is that you may take time to read over the entire 
epistle, as it is Peter's final benediction, and I endorse it. The 
word divine is seldom used in the New Testament, never in the 
gospel, unless it is equivalent to the word righteous ; in 
the 17th chapter of John, Christ is moved to say, " O, righteous 
Father." I think he might have said, O, divide Father, which 
would be equivalent to Holy Father, 11th verse. In 5th verse, he 
says, " O, Father, glorify thou me with thine own self, with the 
glory which I had with thee before the world was." If this word 
divine designates, or points to, as I believe it does, to the attri- 
butes of God, it may reach the angelical host, and this may be the 
ground, why the devil claims it through his agencies all through 
the Old Testament. The magicians, the soothsayers, astrolo- 
gers, and necromancers, all claimed it. To demonstrate what I 
have said, I refer you to the 16th chapter and 16th verse of Acts^ 
" And it came to pass as we went to prayer, a certain damsel pos- 
sessed of a spirit of divination, met us, which brought her master 
much gain, by soothsaying." Paul questioning the divine power, 
cast the devil out, which broke up their illegitimate business, 
although he got a terrible whipping for it. Please turn to the 9th 
chapter and 1st verse of Hebrews. "Then, verily, the first covenant 
had also ordinances of divine service, and a worldly sanctuary." I 
am led to believe that the word divine here, refers to the 3rd 
verse. "And after the second vail, the tabernacle which is called 
the holiest of all within this vail, which had the golden censer, 
and the ark of the covenant . . . Aaron's rod that budded, and 
the tables of the covenant, and over it the cherubim of glorj'- 
shadowing the mercy seat." I don't use the word divine in healing 
the body ; for upwards of eight years I have been known as 
Elder W. G. Raymond, the faith healer. I never have been able 
to see anything divine in a brass serpent, and y^i thousands 
were healed by looking at it. Num. xxi : 7-9. I also fail to see 
anything divine in the act of Naaman's dipping seven times in the 
river Jordan. Yet, his flesh became as the flesh of a child, and 



ELDER W. G. RAYMOND. 157 

he was clean. 2 Kings v : 14. Can you see anything divine in 
the hem of Christ's garment? When our Saviour was only a man 
he was called Jesus, that he might save us from our sins. The 
atonement was perfected through the shedding of the blood of this 
man Christ Jesus. God was in Christ reconciling the world unto 
himself. 2 Cor. v: 19-21. Yet this woman was healed in a 
minute by the simplest faith. Mark v: 25-29. And they (the 
disciples) cast out many devils, and anointed with oil many that 
were sick, and healed them. Mark vi: 13. Other wonderful 
cases of touching may be found in Mark vi : 56. They laid the 
sick in the streets, and besought him that they might touchy if it 
were but the border of his garment, and, as many as touched him, 
were made whole. Read Luke vi : 19. The whole multitude 
sought to touch him, for there went virtue out of him, and healed 
them all. Please read the 5th chapter of John., commencing with the 
5th, and ending with the 9th verse. Was there anything divine in 
the pool, or the angel that troubled the water, or the persons who 
assisted the invalid into the water? Read Acts v: 15-16. Was 
Peter divine? Was his shadow divine? Yet there were many 
healed through his agency. Read the 19th chapter of the Acts oj 
the Apostles, 11th and 12th verses, "And God wrought special 
miracles by the hands of Paul, so that from his body were brought 
unto the sick handkerchiefs, or aprons, and the diseases departed 
from them, and the evil spirits went out of them." No one would 
say that Paul was divine, or the relics that he used ; so I conclude 
that all these healed were healed through the simplest faith in 
Christ Jesus. I have had quite a number healed by touching me, 
and others the moment I touched them, or laid hands on them. 
I believe there have been thousands healed through this channel 
in the United States. I seek to make my record on this line of 
faith ; some are healed by the gift of healing. Under this gift it 
is not absolutely necessary to see the patient, or lay hands on, it is 
usually instantaneous ; to another, the gift of miracles ; this is 
quickly done by working with God and nature. I have witnessed 
wonderful cures under this gift ; to another, prophecy. This is 
reproducing the gospel, under the power of the Holy Ghost ; to 
another, the discerning of spirits ; this gift is withheld from the 
majority of the faith people, they have got to walk very closely 
with God, to possess it ; I have had it to a wonderful degree at 
times, for I believe that I have seen millions of fallen angels. 



158 LIFE SKETCHES OF 

The casting out devils is another gift. Mark xvi: 17-18. Also 
Luke ix : 1-2. '' And gave them power and authority over all 
devils, and to cure diseases, and he sent them to preach the 
kingdom of God, and to heal the sick." "To another, divers 
kinds of tongues, to another, the interpretation of tongues. But 
all these worketh that one and the self-same spirit, dividing to 
every man severall}' as he will." 1 Cor. xii: 8-11. These two 
last gifts are overlooked by most of the faith people, though I 
have seen quite a number that have received it, to a considerable 
extent. Though Jesus says they shall speak with new tongues. 
Mark xvi : 17. He gives a new heart of flesh, and a great many 
people need a new tongue, as much as they do a new heart. As 
evidence of this, I call attention to James iii: 5-6. The last 
named verse reads as follows : " And the tongue is a fire, a world 
of iniquity, so is the tongue among our members that it defileth 
the whole body, and setteth on fire the course of nature, and it is 
set on fire of hell." I anointed under James v: 14-15, the sick 
part of the body, or cause it to be done. I lay on hands with 
with others, according to Mark xvi : 18. They shall lay hands 
on the sick, and they shall recover. Cancers and tumors have 
been removed under this order. I have seen thousands of per- 
sons that have been given up of doctors to die, and many of them 
have recovered under this prescription of the Holy Ghost. I 
believe that the blood of Jesus Christ, His Son, cleanseth us from 
all sin. 1 John i : 7. Christ did not see corruption. Psalms 
xvi: 10, " For thou will-not leave my soul in hell, neither wilr 
thou suffer thine Holy One to see corruption." Acts ii:31, 
" That his soul was not left in hell, neither did see corruption." 
After his resurrection, Mary must not touch him till he has taken 
the blood that he shed on the cross up into the Holiest of Holies. 
John XX : 17, " But into heaven itself, now to appear in the presence 
of God for us." Heh. ix : 24, by the which will we are sanctified 
through the offering of the body of Jesus Christ, once for all. 
Heh, X : 16, " I will put my law in their hearts, and in their minds 
will I write them." 17th verse, " And their sins and their iniquities 
will I remember no more." 18th verse, " Now where remission of 
these is, there is no more offering for sin." 19th verse, " Hav- 
ing therefore, brethren, boldness to enter into the Holiest, by the 
blood of Jesus." 20th verse, "By a new and living way which he 
hath consecrated for us through the veil, that is to say, his flesh," 




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ELDER W. G. RAYMOND. 159 

that precious blood will always remain in the Holiest of Holies, 
and will be a voucher for every saint, forever and forever, and it 
will never lose its virtue or power ; as the evidence of this please 
read the 12th verse of the 9th chapter, " But by his own blood he 
entered once into the Holy place, having obtained eternal redemp- 
tion for us." 26th verse, " But now once in the end of the 
world, hath he appeared to put away sin by the sacrifice of 
himself." 



(Frank Leslie's Illustrated Newspaper, April 1, 1888.) 
Faith Cure and Baptism. 

The religious manifestations of the new sect of Faith Curists 
have attracted attention, of late, not so much on account of any 
novelty in the baptismal ceremony which they practice, as from 
the peculiar belief to which this is the sign of their conversion. 

The devotees of Faith Cure, as the name indicates, believe that 
the earthly body, as well as the immortal soul, is susceptible to 
the operation of faith ; and each convert testifies to some personal 
experience of this miraculous curative power. 

Two Faith Cure sanctuaries have recently been established in 
Jersey City. The meetings were well attended, some attracted by 
curiosity, some by superstition, and some no doubt by sincere hope 
of divine alleviation of their maladies, such as is claimed to be 
wrought by the relic of St. Paul, in the Catholic monastery on the 
West Hoboken Heights. 

A Faith Cure mission for the benefit of the canalmen has been 
established at the foot of Fifteenth Street, Jersey City, by a Mr. 
Raymond, and his daughter Mrs. Goldsmith. 

On Monday, the 19th of last month, seventeen canal boatmen, 
together with the wives of seven of them, were baptized from the 
Mount Zion Faith Cure Sanctury, at Greenville, Jersey City's 
southern suburb, on New York Bay. The converts, arraj-ed in 
flowing black gowns, were led into the icy salt water of the bay 
by Mr. Raymond, and immersed in the orthodox manner with 
prayers, and the singing of hymns. They declared that through 
faith the waters were made warm to them, so that they did not 
suffer from the chilly bath. 



160 LIFE SKETCHES OF 

(The Baltimore Sun, October 8, 1888.) 
Elder Raymond's Return to Baltimore. 

Elder W. G. Raj'mond, whose performances in faith healing in 
Jerse}" City and elsewhere in the North made him a seven days* 
wonder, is again in Baltimore, where he labored for two or three 
years prior to his departure in 1886. Yesterday he went to Rock 
Creek, Anne Arundel County, to baptize a convert, Mr. A. H. 
Young, a resident of the neighborhood, and who is an t)ld friend 
of the Elder's. The two waded out among the fishing boats until the 
water made their knee joints shiver, and then the Elder immersed 
his companion. The former vrore a pair of twelve dollar gum 
boots, the gift of some Massachusetts friends. Formerly he 
waded undaunted into the icy water, but now he has so many bap- 
tisms that he cannot endure the exposure. His convert was not 
so fortunate as to have rubber boots. The rest of the afternoon 
was spent in devotional exercises, in which the convert figured 
prominently. The big dancing pavilion on the pleasure grounds 
was the gathering place.. The faith healers returned to Baltimore 
on the evening boat, and passed the time during the voyage preach- 
ing to the passengers who had spent the Sunday fishing in Rock 
Creek. The Elder was accompanied by Elder John Burke, Elder 
Frederick Pensel, Mrs. Mary C. Pensel, Elder and Mrs. David Y. 
Chronister, of Baltimore. At night communion service was held 
at 925 North Wolfe Street. Elder Raymond will go to Washing- 
ton to-day, where six years ago he was serving as an associate 
pastor of a Baptist church, and where by the faith process he was, 
he says, cured of many ills and aches. 



(The Jersey City Argus, April, 1889.) 

One Immersion. 

Elder Raymond of the Faith Curists, baptizes a colored man. 

A man of Ethiopia came yesterday morning to Elder W. G. 
Raymond, the eminent faith curist, to be baptized. Like the 
eunuch of old he had heard of Elder Raymond and his wonderful 
works. The new convert did not come in a chariot but on a good 
pair of pedal appendages enclosed in good solid number nines. 
He is an oysterman and rejoices in the name of plain Thomas 



ELDER W. G. RAYMOND. 161 

Smith. He is not a doubting Thomas either, for instead of apply- 
ing to doctors to cure his paralyzed arm, like ordinary folks, he 
prayed and he got Elder Raymond to pray and the little band of 
curists said '' Amen," with the result that his arm is now, he 
affirms, almost restored like unto the other. To continue the cure 
Thomas commenced with himself saying, " What doth hinder me 
to be baptized ? " Yesterday morning about ten o'clock, clad in 
suitable attire and accompanied by Elder Raymond, they went 
down into New York Bay, off Cadmus' dock on the shore of Bay- 
onne. Being a somewhat earlier hour than was expected, coupled 
with a drizzling rain, there were but few present at the ceremony. 
These included Brother and Sister Russell, Sister Goldsmith, the 
faith curist's daughter. Brother Parker, from Brooklyn, and several 
more of less renown. " The Old Ship Zion," sang the curists, as 
the gray-headed old negro was being cleansed. The sound of 
vocal music drew quite a crowd of spectators, who watched the 
proceedings from a distance with a look of incredulousness, blended 
with just a twinkle of amusement. " O Happy Day, When Jesus 
Washed My Sins Away," sang the brothers and sisters, as each 
shook the aged colored man by the hand. A brief address fol- 
lowed by Elder Raymond, in which he announced that this was 
the first colored person he had baptized, and related the story of 
the man of Ethiopia, a eunuch of great authority under Caudace, 
queen of the people of that country who was baptized by Philip, 
on the wa}^ between Jerusalem and Gaza. At Brother Benjamin 
Russell's home on 741 Avenue E, the services were concluded. A 
short service was held at the same place at three o'clock in the 
afternoon, and in the evening at Sister Holthusen's, 47 Cole Street, 
Jerse}' City. At this latter place meetings are held every Friday 
evening. Thursday evenings at Brother Chadwick's, 8 Magnolia 
Avenue, Jerse}^ City, and this evening at Sister Vale's, 356 Grove 
Street. Brother Elsey, of Jersey City, has offered Elder Ray- 
mond the use of the propertj^ built by him last year in Currie's 
Woods, on the shore of Newark Bay, to conduct services in 
during the coming summer. He also offers to put up a tent, big 
enough to accommodate the thousands of hearers that may turn 
out to listen to the Elder. Other generously inclined persons have 
offered to defray the cost of building a boat house to be used by 
the Elder, who has been refused the use of the floating Bethel in 
which to carry on the faith cure services. 
11 



162 LIFE SKETCHES OF 

" Six cases of cancer," remarked the faith curist to the Argus 
man, " which came under my care last July have all been healed." 
Mrs. George H. Vincent, who was baptized last Sunday, the 
Elder considers a remarkable case of the power of God. She 
had been sick for nearly sixteen years and on the Sunday after- 
noon referred to she was saved in an hour and was then baptized. 
On Saturday night the lady said she never felt so well in her life. 
Another remarkable case was that of a young lady named Josie, 
whose hearing and speech were affected through the use of bad 
vaccine. This was a young Catholic girl. This young girl 
(Josie Holthusen), tore around in a dreadful way biting and 
scratching everything that came within her reach. The Elder 
commanded the devil to come out of her and in two minutes she 
was perfectly calm. Now she is able to say a few things such as, 
" Jesus," " Glory to God," and part of the Lord's Prayer. The 
Elder also referred to cases of severe headaches which he had 
been able to drive away. This led the Argus man to mention in- 
cidentally that he was troubled with just such an affliction. There- 
upon Elder Raj^ mond offered to drive the devil out of the scribe's 
cranium. To see just how he might feel under the peculiar treat- 
ment he gave permission. Placing his left hand on the occipital 
bone and right on the frontal bone the Elder called his daughter, 
Mrs. Goldmith, and she placed her hands on the region of spirit- 
uality. Then the Elder prayed that the head might be made whole 
with all tissues of the body and organisms and Sister Goldsmith 
responded fervently and prayed also. Still holding the scribe's 
think-box the brothers and sisters sang a hymn. How did the 
scribe feel? His feelings were in jumble of risibility, scepticism, 
and general all-overishness. 



(A clipping from the New York Sun, April, 1889.) 

After prayer and singing by Elder Raymond, the candidates for 
baptism retired to the hospital on the opposite side of the road 
from the sanctuary, and changed their clothing for the cold water 
bath. A crowd of four hundred people had gathered to witness 
the ceremony. At the steps leading to the water the Elder took 
off his kid gloves and silk hat and handed them to a friend. The 
candidates gathered around him and he addressed the crowd, 
advising them to look on the ceremony as a holy one. With the 
candidates he then kneeled in the snow and prayed for a blessing 



ELDER W. G. RAYMOND, 163 

on everybody, concluding by asking that the devils be driven out 
of the hearts of the boys present, so that they would be unable to 
laugh as they had on previous occasions. He then led the way 
into the water, holding by the hand Mrs. Barclay, and followed 
b}' Mr. Watson, who was clad in a rubber suit. The candidate 
was about forty years old, and she weighed at least one hundred 
and ninety pounds. When the water covered her hips, at a point 
about twenty-five feet from the shore, the Elder stopped, and, still 
holding her, prayed that the water might be made warm. Mrs. 
Barclay said, " Glory to God ! " and shut her mouth tightly. The 
Elder then repeated the baptismal service, at the conclusion of 
which he gently pulled her backwards until she was entirely 
immersed. She came up rejoicing and repeating the words^ 
" Glory to God ! " several times. She was handed ashore by Mr. 
Watson, where her husband, who was baptized last week, met her, 
and took her to the sanctuary. 

Miss Shengul was the next to step into the water. When she 
struggled to her feet from her waterv bed she exclaimed: " Oh, 
Lord ! Thank God ! " and staggered to the shore. Miss McMan- 
nus was the next. She clutched the arm of the Elder with both 
hands, and when she was put on her feet she grabbed at the hand- 
kerchief that he held in his hand, and commenced to rub her face 
furiously. Mrs. Sullivan, an Irish woman, and once a Catholic,, 
took her place. She weighs over two hundred pounds, and th& 
Elder called Mr. Watson to assist in bringing her to the surface. 
Miss Dumont came next. She was followed by Mrs. Osterhoudt,. 
who weighs two hundred and thirty pounds. When she left the 
water she insisted that she felt a good deal warmer than when she 
had entered it, and she waited on the steps, dripping as she was, 
until her husband, who was the next candidate, was baptized. 
Robert Ames followed him, and he seemed thoroughly to enjoy 
the affair. "Jesus help me ! '* he cried as he went under the 
water, and " Lord bless him ! " he exclaimed as he came up and. 
splashed the water playfully. The last candidate was William 
Dutcher, from Lansingburg, N. Y. He wore a red flannel shirt 
and side whiskers, and, when the ceremony had been completed, 
he walked ashore with a look of satisfaction. Another prayer 
meeting was then held and the party adjourned. 

Last night the church boat was crowded, and all who had been 
baptized said they were well and felt no evil results from the wet- 



164 LIFE SKETCHES OF 

ting. Elder Raymond opened the meeting with a prayer, in which 
he said: ''Oh, Lord, we are thankful for the pleasure we have 
had this afternoon, but we want one more favor. Drive out of 
the hearts of those reporters who were there the devils in them. 
We don't want them to write anything ridiculous about us, and all 
we want them to do is to tell the truth. Oh, Lord, palsy their 
hand if they write anything but the truth, and drive out the devil. 
If we can't let the world know of our doings through the religious 
press, we can through the secular press if the reporters will only 
tell the truth. Make them do that, oh Lord, and if they start to 
write anything else break their pen and palsy their hand." The 
meeting was not over until midnight 



(Jersey News^ April, 1888.) 

In Faith and Cold Water. 

faith cukists who were baptized in new york bay 

yesterday. 

How believers were taken into the fold b}^ the generals of the 
energetic little army at work in Jersey City, nine persons were 
plunged ftito the icy water in the presence of many people. 

In spite of the young spring sunshine the shore of the bay 
where the New York Bay Cemetery, in Jersey Cit}^ extends down 
to the water, looking bleak and bare yesterday when, shortly 
before noon, the band of Faith Curists collected there to witness 
the baptism in the chilling waters of nine devout believers. Be- 
fore them the broad expanse of the bay lay sparkling in the sun- 
light and beyond the towers and domes and miles of brick and 
mortar and the millions of human lives that hope and struggle 
and die, fringed the shores. Great ships rode at their anchors, 
their white sails furled, and their black funnels devoid of plume 
of smoke or crown of sparks. 

It was a day of peace on land and sea and through the still 
air the song of that band of enthusiasts rose clear and strong : — 

•' We're going home, uo more to roam ; 
No more to sin or sorrow." 

Down beyond the Narrows, where the frowning forts keep watch 
and ward, there was a dark cloud gathering, but the Faith Curists 
saw it not. They were far away in another realm, a kingdom of 



ELDER W. G. RAYMOND. 165 

shadows and of vague unrealities, and with a strange and unnat- 
ural light in their eyes they raised their song and saw in the 
turbid waters of commerce-freighted New York Bay the river of 
life and the sea of crystal. 

Elder Raymond, bearing his " three-score years and ten " lightly 
upon him, descended into the water. He was clad in a suit of 
rubber, as a sort of aid to his faith, and led by the hand a little 
boy of nine, whose fair face looked up to the cloudless sky with a 
rapt, ecstatic look. The song on the shore grew louder as the old 
man and the fair-faced young boy stood for a minute waist-high 
in the cold water, and then in the name of the sacred Trinity the 
boy was immersed. The boy came out of the water dripping wet, 
and his place was taken by his sister, a thirteen-year-old child, 
who was also immersed. Among the Faith Curists this boy, Char- 
lie Haley is regarded as a sort of inspired being. He is a ner- 
vous bo3^, the son of a canal-boat captain. He it was who was 
first converted to the faith of the Curists. He began to preach 
his new convictions on the deck and in the cabin of his father's 
canal-boat and astonished the old gentleman by asking grace before 
he ate. In a short time the whole family became converts, and 
yesterday the boy and his sister were immersed in the cold waters 
of the bay amid the sound of songs of praise from the company 
gathered on the shore. 

The next candidate was Mrs. Stella Knapp, a woman of mature 
age, who walked into the water with a hymn on her lips. Brother 
Geo. M. Vincent, of Steuben County, and his wife Mary were 
among those baptized that day. Two more women were baptized, 
and then a youth of seventeen years, trembling with emotion, 
went into the water. 

*' Washed in the blood of the Lamb," sang the rapt enthusiasts 
on the shore. Curious people who had come to the cemetery for 
a Sunday outing, had gathered by this time about the band of 
believers and looked on with half contempt and half wonder at 
the proceedings. Some few, as the familiar hymns rose and fell 
on the still air and the silent city of the dead, stretched with its 
white-dotted slopes behind them, felt a something that reminded 
them in a subtle manner of other scenes and other da3's long lost 
to them and joined in the song. The names of those baptized 
were Charles L. Haley, aged nine ; Edith Haley, thirteen ; Stella 
Knapp, Hannah Barbar and Esther Bedford, all adults, Edward 



166 LIFE SKETCHES OF 

Wilson, aged seventeen ; James Robinson, aged thirtj^-five ; George 
Green, a boy of eleven, and his brother Jesse Green, aged twenty- 
three. 

When the baptizing was all over the converts and the band of 
believers proceeded to the " Sanctuary," a house near the water- 
side that the Faith Curists have secured, and the baptized ones 
changed their cold, wet clothing for dry and warm habiliments. 
The women had gone into the water with calico wrappers on, and 
the men in their shirts and trousers. There was great rejoicing 
yesterday afternoon in the little wooden building on Bergen Ave- 
nue where the red flag floats every Sunday, proclaiming that the 
cure of faith is in progress, and those brands plucked from the 
burning testified that " By faith ye shall remove mountains." 



(Jersey City Journal^ February 25, 1889.) 

Baptized Through the Ice. 

Five new converts to the power of healing the body and saving 
the soul by faith were 3'esterday afternoon baptized in Newark 
Bay, at Pamrapo, by Elder W. G. Ra3'mond, the former pastor of 
Mr. Elsej's church. The ba3^ was covered with ice more than a 
hundred feet from shore, and the fort}^ faith cure advocates, and 
two-score of worldly people witnessed the immersions from the 
shore. Elder Raj-mond preached on " Baptism." More hymns 
were sung, and, as by that time five converts had arrived, Mr. 
Raymond led a march to the shore. The converts and the Elder 
wore heavy clothing and rubbers. The people gathered about 
the edge of the ice and sang " Happy Day." Mrs. Nettie Fisk, 
a comely 3'oung woman whose home is at Newark, Wayne County, 
New York, fearlessly waded out in the narrow path opened by the 
Elder. Whatever effect the ic3^ water had upon her, Mrs. Fisk did 
not betray, and the friends on shore cried "Praise the Lord!" 
for her pluck. The Elder dipped the convert under the water as 
gently as he could. The water was wiped from her face and she 
rejoined those on shore. She laughed and shouted with the others 
after her wet garments had been replaced b3^ dry ones. The 
remaining converts were encouraged by this, and made brave by 
looking at Mrs. Fisk's immersion, and they entered the water 
without hesitancy and went through the ordeal without flinching. 



ELDER W. G. RAYMOND. 167 

The Curists at the conclusion of the immersion sang a h3'mn and 
the Elder said : " Behold it is a beautiful day. Praise the Lord, 
for he is with us. Let us sing." The crowd sang, " Whiter than 
snow." The worldly people by this time were developing symp- 
toms of being chilly, and started for home. The Curists repaired 
to the home of Brother Benjamin Russell, on Avenue E, near by, 
and held services. There the converts were congratulated upon their 
pluck. This evening Elder Raymond will conduct services at the 
residence of Sister Vail, No. 356 Grove Street, and at Sister Hol- 
thusen's. No. 47 Coles Street, Friday evening. He expects a 
number of converts for next Sunday. 



(Oct. 1, 1886, Crown of Glory.) 

Beulah Land Faith Home. 

No. 9 N. Strieker St., Baltimore, Md. 

BY MRS. M. A. PERRY. 

Since the opening of this Faith Home in November, 1884, the 
*' Lord, our healer," has been in the midst, in mighty power. 
There have been many saved and healed through faith in 
Jesus Christ. I will refer brieflj' to a few cases who have 
been wonderfully healed. Among those healed and filled with the 
Holy Spirit, were men, women, and children of different denomi- 
nations, and God has been glorified through them. Mrs. Bias 
was healed of neuralgia, of many years' standing ; Mrs. Harkem, 
healed of asthma and dyspepsia, of twenty-five 3'ears' standing, 
physicians failing in all their skill, but Jesus, the great physician, 
did it in a moment ; Wm. Biminis, was instantly healed of hip 
disease ; after having suffered for years, Henry Wilder, healed 
of catarrh, of twenty-six years' standing ; Hattie Ferguson and 
Carrie Hardester, healed of catarrh of several 3'ears' standing ; all 
manner of cases, consumption, spinal disease, deafness, blindness 
— many cases of rheumatism and paralysis and eyrsipelas. We 
have visited and prayed for cases of pneumonia and measles, and 
many other cases. But the record is kept by the recording angel 
on high. There are so many who have been touched bj^ the 
blessed Saviour who refused to publish to their friends what great 
things the Lord had done for them. Surely God has been glorified 



168 LIFE SKETCHES OF 

through the healing of many bodies and souls of his children. 
George Taylor, living at 133 Hamburg street, Baltimore, was 
healed of a horrible throat disease ; the Lord filled him with the 
Holy Ghost. But among the families who have been saved and 
healed are, Brothers Allison and Johnson. Whole families have 
been converted, and many convicted of sin. We desire the 
prayers of all the readers of the Crown of Glory that God may 
supply all our need, and not only pray but remember that God 
loveth a cheerful giver. 



(Jersey City News^ April 1, 1889.) 

The Clouds Rolled Away. 

was it an answer to elder raymond's prayers. 

At any rate, the Faith Curist Baptism was not prevented by 
Snow — A venerable Old Man takes the Chilly Plunge. 

Elder William G. Raymond and several dozen members of his 
little flock of Faith Curists bravely trudged through the drizzle of 
rain and snow yesterda}^ morning to Brother Benjamin Russell's 
*' Faith Home and Hospital" on avenue E. Pamrapo. After 
exchanging osculatory salutes and animated greetings the devo- 
tees joined in the services which Elder Raymond began without 
much loss of time. As a number of converts were present await- 
ing baptism, the principal features of the services consisted of 
long and earnest prayers that the storm would abate so that the 
ceremony could be performed. 

With the turn of the tide from flood to ebb the wind shifting a 
trifle, and the snow ceased falling. Then with joyful acclaims that 
their prayers had been answered, the Elder's followers hastily 
donned their headgear and outer covering and followed the Elder 
through the slushy streets to the foot of Fish's lane, on the 
Pamrapo shore of New York Bay, where they gathered in a 
picturesque group and continued their services. The band first 
sang " When the Clouds Have Rolled Away," and the Elder 
delivered a brief discourse on " Baptism." 

When he finished he raised his arms as a signal, and while the 
curists sang " The New, New Song," he clasped the hands of John 
H. Zabriskie, aged eighty-one years, of No. 317 First Street, Jersey 
City, and led Mm into the tide. The decrepit old man went 



ELDER W. G. RAYMOND. 169 

through the dipping process without displa3'ing much nervousness, 
and when he was led toward the shore he joined the band in 
singing their favorite hymn, " O, Happy Day." Mrs. Zabriskie, 
a motherly looking, elderly woman, stood near the water's edge, 
and she welcomed her husband with a demonstration of joy. 

" We are bound hand in hand for Heaven !" she cried, throw- 
ing her arms about her husband's neck and kissing him repeatedly. 

"Praise the Lord!" shouted the Elder, and the devotees 
echoed the cry. 

While the flock sang, '' We're Going Home, To-morrow," Mrs* 
Fowler, aged thirty-nine years, and a widow living in Jersey City, 
was led into the water by Elder Raymond. He baptized her 
quickly and escorted her to the shore. In the meantime the band 
sang " Whiter than Snow." 

During the afternoon Elder Raymond conducted an experience 
meeting and communion service in Brother Russell's front parlor* 
Two conversions were reported, and the converts of the morning 
were anointed. 



(New York Illustrated News^ April 7, 1888.) 

Salvation in the Icy Bay. 

Seventeen canal boatmen and seven women, the wives of seven 
of the men, were baptized the other day in the icy waters of New 
York Ba}^ opposite Mount Zion Faith Cure Sanctuary, at the foot 
of Chapel Avenue, Greenville, in Jersey City. The}' had been 
converted to the religion of the faith cure believers at the Canal 
Men's Mission, established by W. G. Raymond and his daughter, 
at the foot of Fifteenth Street, Jerse}' City, two months ago, and 
they had waited until there was a semblance of spring weather 
before complying with the chief rule of the church. At two 
o'clock, together with Mr. Raymond, his daughter, Mary 
Goldsmith, Mr. George Watkins, and about fifty faith people 
alighted from a car at the entrance of New York Bay 
Cemetery, and walked through the cemetery to the sanctuary, 
where hundreds of persons had preceded them. Upon their arrival 
a prayer meeing was held, and then the candidates for baptism re- 
tired to a room, where the}' changed their apparel for flowing gowns. 
In the meantime, the friends and spectators arranged themselves as 
comfortably as possible, and they passed the time there in ringing 



170 LIFE SKETCHES OF 

hymns until the front doors of the sanctuary opening on the bay 
were throw open and the twenty-four candidates for baptism, 
headed by Mr. Raymond, marchfed double file to the water, the 
brisk breeze making their gowns flutter. At the water's edge 
another prayer meeting was held, and hymns were sung. Mr. 
Kaymond ended the service by a prayer that the water should be 
made warm for those who were about to enter it. 

He then took a gray-haired man b}^ the arm, and together they 
stepped down the bank into the water and away from the 
shore until the water was waist deep. Mr. Raymond then raised 
his hand, and as he repeated the usual words used on such occa- 
sions, he drew the old man backward until he was entirely im- 
mersed. Holding him there an instant he cried, "-Glory be to God !" 
and then he raised him to his feet, wiped the salt water from his 
e3'es, and let him walk back to the shore. The second candidate 
to step into the water was a young six-footer about twenty- 
four years of age. He was treated the same as his prede- 
cessor, but he seemed to enjoy it more, for as he walked ashore he 
splashed the water with his hands and shouted, "Glory! Glory! 
Glory ! I'm saved ! " On the shore he danced for jo}', and when 
asked whether the water was cold, he said he never felt warmer in 
his life. 

Fourteen more men followed each other in rapid succession into 
the water, and were baptized, and then it was the women's turn. 

In the sanctuary, after the baptisms, another prayer and praise 
meeting was held. There will be services at the Canal Mission all 
this week. 



A Remarkable Case of Casting Out Devils and Healing. 

Jersey City, May, 1881. 

Dear Bro. Raymond^ — I wish to give you a statement of my 
healing which occurred over four years ago. I am an adopted 
daughter of Mrs. Holthusen, but she has alwa3's acted the part of 
an own mother to me. To procure the benefit of healing, my 
mother put all of her money (over five hundred dollars) into a 
Faith Home in this city, with the understanding that we could 
have a home there, but the devils possessed me to such an extent 



ELDER W. G. RAYMOND. 



171 




JOSIE HOLTHUSEN, OF JERSEY CiTY. 

that I annoyed the inmates and we were requested to leave the 
Home. They considered my case hopeless, but we continued 
attending their meetings until Elder Raymond came to the city, 
and my mother heard of his wonderful cures in the name of the 
Lord, so she sent for him to come and see me, and he came one 
afternoon, and commenced casting the devils out of me. They 
did leave me, and I was clothed in my right mind in a few 
minutes. Immediately I assumed command of my hands and 
tongue, commenced to gain rapidly physically, as well as men- 
tally. I am now healed soul and body. I was baptized by Elder 
Raymond in New York Ba}-. 

I will give 3'ou a statement of my disease : I have suffered over 
seven years with St. Vitus' dance, and the last six months spinal 
menigitis set in. I was sent to the Cook A Hospital in Chicago. 
I continued to grow worse, and four of the doctors gave me up. 
I had spasms that lasted three hours, grew so bad they had to 
strap me down. When I had one of these spells I would tear 
everything, frothed at the mouth, snap and bite like a dog, and 
spit like a cat, was in constant motion most of the time. 

When Elder Raymond came I was like a baby, had to be 
dressed, fed with a teaspoon, and then it would run out of m}' 
mouth, I was anointed, and healed instantly, so now I am prais- 
ing the Lord for all His goodness to me. I know more about the 



172 LIFE SKETCHES OF 

love of Jesus than ever before, and praise His holy name for 
keeping me well and strong, according to the 103d Psalm : 

'' Praise the Lord, Oh, my soul, and all that is within me, bless 
and praise His holy name, and forget not all His benefits, who 
forgiveth all thy iniquities, who healeth all thy diseases." 

Praise the Lord. I pray the Lord will keep you well, and that 
your work may continue. 

From your little sister in Christ Jesus, 

JOSIE HOLTHUSEN. 



Another Remarkable Case op Casting Out of Devils. 

741 Avenue E., Bayonne, N. J., 

June 17, 1890. 
Elder W. G. Raymond, 

Dear Brother in Christ: — I am moved by the Spirit of God 
to give you a little sketch of my sickness, healing, and deliver- 
ance from the power of devils. 

For nineteen long years I was almost a hopeless invalid ; dur- 
ing which time I was treated by ten doctors, — they all, one by one, 
gave me up as a hopeless case. Some of the principal medicines- 
they gave me were morphine, chloroform, and strumonium to smoke. 
I took four or five such medicines as these every day. My weight 
was from fifty to fifty-two pounds. And I had to be carried up 
and down stairs morning and night. This was done mostly by 
my father. I had to be fanned for hours at a time to keep the 
breath of life in me. My diseases were called catarrh — which 
was very bad, the asthma, consumption, heart disease, with severe 
palpitations, — stomach and liver complaint, bowel and female 
troubles which caused a general breaking down of the whole sys- 
tem and very seriously affected my brain. And in addition to 
this I was tortured, tormented, and bound by devils. They got 
so they would talk to me at night. One night they came and said 
a friend of mine was dying, and that I must be taken right over 
there, or I would never see her alive. They took me over, and 
when I got there T found that there was nothing the matter with 
her at all. The next time he came he said that my Bro. Benja- 
min had just fallen off the train, and that the next train would 
crush him to pieces. He said, *' You could hear him groan now 



ELDER W. G. RAYMOND. 173 

if you would only listen." I replied, " I believe you are the 
Devil." " I am not the Devil," was his reply. "You are the 
Devil, and yoii lied to me the other night." He then replied, 
"You had better go to taking medicine, for Elder Raymond is 
coming up here and he will handle you roughly." " I have given 
up medicine and shan't take any more." " You'll certainl}' need 
it if he comes." I didn't know that he was coming, and the Elder 
said he did not know when he could come. He had disappointed 
us several times on account of heavy work in Jersey City. 

Then the Devil said, " I suppose he thinks he will cast me out 
of you, but he can't do it." " Yes, he can, for he has got more 
faith than I have in God." " If he casts me out I will come back 
again." Then I replied, " You will not come back again, for 
Christ won't let you." 

The Elder did come the next afternoon, April 9, 1888, and we 
arranged to have a parlor meeting in the evening. Just before 
the meeting the Elder said, " Sarah, we will attend to those devils 
now." And in ten minutes they were all cast out of me. He used 
the " Sword of the Spirit," and commanded the devils to leave my 
bod}'. And the asthma left me, and the consumption and heart 
troubles. All these diseases disappeared. I was moved to be 
baptized in Newark Bslj. I walked four or five squares to the 
cars, and half a mile from the cars to the water, and back home 
again. In the afternoon I walked back to the cars and from the 
cars I walked to the Elsie Chapel, three-quarters of a mile^ and in 
the evening partook of the communion, and walked back again to 
the cars and then home that night, and felt better when I 
got back again than when I started, " Glory to God in the high- 
est." Last summer, 1889, I went up with Mrs. Mary Goldsmith of 
Buffalo, and back ; when I came back I weighed between eighty 
and ninety pounds. I have had some severe attacks since then, 
but the Lord has helped me to throw them off. I am now so I 
can assist m}' mother in many things about the house and go out 
to meeting as other people do. I am ready to witness vrherever 
an opportunity presents itself, and I shall never forget what the 
Lord did for me through the laying on of your hands, and praying 
to God for my deliverance. Any one wishing to correspond with 
me can direct as indicated at the beginning of this letter. Hoping 
that this letter may encourage and strengthen, I subscribe myself, 

Your sister in Christ, Sarah E. Russell. 



174 LIFE SKETCHES OF 

{Crown of Glory, Newark, N. J., Oct. 1, 1886.) 

HORSES. BY ELDER RAYMOND. 

I write you in regard to the healing of the two horses belonging 
to Mr. Philip March, 244 Montg^omery Street, Baltimore, Md. 
One of them was healed of a swollen limb and hoof. While I was 
holding meeting in his house, m}- attention was called to their 
condition. One was in a most pitiable condition ; had been so 
between six and seven months. The hind leg was out of joint, 
and the foot turned out, and the poor horse dragging his foot (the 
disease called stifle) . Veterinary surgeons could do nothing for him, 
Bro. March had him turned out on his farm, and offered to give 
him away to any one who would take him and keep him. But some 
men said he was not worth a chew of tobacco. I told them if 
they would bring the horse up in the yard and let me look at him, 
I would pray and ask God to heal him. I anointed with oil and 
laid my hands on him and prayed, and the third morning I 
praj^ed they were well and went to work, and have worked every 
day since. The one with the hip trouble is a valuable horse. 
Hundreds of people have seen him, and men have been saved, 
and more convicted of the power of God in answering the prayer 
of faith. Praise God ! (The picture of this horse can be seen in 
the plate of Beulah Land Faith Home, page 103.) 

The healing of those horses led a score of sinners to Christ. 

W. G. R. 



A few extracts from letters written by Estelle Lucie, of Troy, 
N. Y., a Catholic girl, converted during the spring of 1890, at 
the Faith Home in Lansingburgh, N. Y., and baptized in the 
Hudson River, October following, by W. G. Raymond. 

The letter below is the first religious one ever written by her : 

Faith Home, Lansingburgh, N. Y. 

Dear Brother Raymond: — I suppose you will wonder who can 
this be from. Well, *tis only I, and I am the girl who came to 
the Home on crutches, and have been praising God ever since for 
coming. ***** j -^^as brought up a Catholic, and 
taught to believe all other ways wrong, and now that training is a 
thorn in the flesh to me, but T cannot turn back, for all satan's 



ELDER W. G. RAYMOND. 175 

powers, for I believe it is satan who is using this as a means to 
call me back into sin. 

I have been trying in my weak way to do a little good in my 
own home, but it is hard work, and I am not yet fully in the light 
myself, but I mean to do my best, and with God's help I cannot 
fail. * * * Now, Brother Eaymond, I am going to ask you 
once more to include me in your prayers, for I am in need of 
prayers in many ways. First, that I may draw nearer to God, 
and, second, that I may be enabled to bring light to many of my 
Catholic friends, whom I can now see are in need of it, although 
'twill be hard work to convince them it is so, and I wish also, that 
you will pray for my healing that I may go about and work in 
every way for the Master. I was lost and am found, and I want 
everj'one to know it. I need more grace and more light, but God 
will give it me ; He hears our prayers. 

I wish you were coming back here soon. I want to be baptized, 
but Sister Musgrove says I will have to wait awhile, and I shall 
wait until you come. It was through your preaching I was con- 
verted, and by you want to be baptized. I didn't think it was 
needed at first, but I do now. 

I will close now, and hope my letter will find you doing the 
good for other poor souls that you did for me, and may the Lord 
keep you in the hollow of His hand. Estelle Lucie. 



Troy, N. Y. 

Dear Brother Raymond : — I have heard through Sister Musgrove 
of your work from time to time, and I haven't forgotten to pray 
for you, that God would bless you and the work, to His own honor 
and glory. 

I sometimes think what a wonderful work we are called to, to 
be servants of the King of Glory, to work with Him, what a 
glorious work ! When I think of what poor, weak, miserable, 
mortals we are, and yet, what we can be, when the life of Christ 
comes in, it seems as though the earth was scarcely half large 
enough to hold the shout that will come from my overflowing 
heart. He was the King, and He left his throne for me. He was 
the Redeemer, and he become poor that I might be rich. He was 
the Saviour and he died for me. He was poor and lowly, a man 
of sorrows and acquainted with grief, deserted by his friends, 



176 LIFE SKETCHES OF 

scorned, and spat upon. Oh ! poor mortals, why should we be 
proud, or why exalted? 

What if our friends do think us crazy because we hold up 
Christ, we are passing so quickly along on our journey that we 
haven't time to think of it, we have only time to look if they are 
going our way, and if not to call to them to come, we 
have time to cheer the weak ones, and help along a brother, 
but for the thoughts and wishes of other than our Captain, 
we haven't time to attend to, but as we move forward we can 
point to the cross, and cry out, " Look and live " to one who 
seems weary. Yes ! praise the Lord, we can carry the name as 
we go, and lift our voices in the grand old chorus : 

" Jesus paid it all, 
All to Him I owe." 

Then let us not be weary, if the rough roads bruise, if our feet are 
sore, let us look be3'ond to the '' joy that cometh in the morning." 
We are homeward bound, and the portals of the eternal city are 
just a little way ahead, and if we are weary now and long to be 
at home, let these thoughts comfort us. 



Troy, N. Y.' 
Dear Brother Baymond : — Your letter brought to me a ray of sun- 
shine that has lasted ever since. * * * * Oh! how I do wish all 
the people of earth, were in truth God's own children, if they knew 
just how much he loves and yearns for everyone of them, how can 
they hear of all of his sufferings, and yet turn away, can they 
think of the pierced hands, the dear head crowned with the cruel 
thorns, and the dear tired feet, all bruised and bleeding, and yet 
turn away ; that I could this night do some work for Jesus ; oh ! 
how I long to work for him, to let the careworn ones see how 
ready he is to bear their cares for them, to let the poor see how 
ready he is to make them rich. Bless the Lord, that I know of all 
his mercies and love, and can sing his praise. Oh, that the 
thirsty would come to the fountain. Oh, that the sick would come 
and be made well. Oh, that the sorrowful would come that they 
might rejoice. Bless the Lord, that my testimony is for Jesus 
only. May God bless and keep you, to win more and more to 
Christ, that when the race is run you may come to your Father^s 
house, bringing in the sheaves. 

Yours in His name, Estelle Lucie. 



ELDER W. G. RAYMOND. 177 

Troy, N. Y. 

Dear Brother Raymond : — I have been trying to find time to 
write to you for about a week, but until now, I have been hurried 
every moment. I should liked to have seen you again before you 
went away, but praise God, you cannot go so far but my prayers 
can follow you. It is a beautiful thought to me, that though we 
are miles apart, in this world, we shall come from the East, 
and from the West, and all be united in oar Father's kingdom, so 
we must be faithful, and watch and pray with all diligence, 
working what is pleasing in his sight, for it is impossible to love 
God and not to serve Him. Oh ! that all the thirsty ones would 
come to the fountain, all the poor come and be made rich, all the 
weary ones come and find rest, and the weak ones strength. 
Glory to God for such a Saviour ! such a salvation, and such a 
Heaven below, why I am happy all along the way. If I have 
troubles I give them right up to Jesus, and that leaves me free, 
for He has told us to cast our burdens on Him. If I am sick I go 
to Jesus, *' Himself took our infirmities and bear our sicknesses," 
and " as many as touched Him were made whole," so I keep very 
close to Jesus, and I find no need for any earthly help. Oh, that 
all the dear sorrowing hearts around us would come and la}^ their 
burdens at the foot of the /Cross and say, I will take Jesus just 
now, how quickly their sorrows would leave them, and all would be 
peace within, and Jesus is so willing to come, if we only let him. 

Now, dear brother, my time grows short, but before I close, I 
will ask you to pray for me, that the Lord will give me an over- 
flowing measure of love for all his creatures, for I want to do 
faithful work in the vineyard. And now ma}" God bless and keep 
you, that you may be able to do much good, having your loins 
girded about, and your light burning, that all men may see that 
there are some yet, who are holding up a crucified Saviour, and a 
Bible that is more than a history ; would to God we had more 
Bible Christians, that were not ashamed or afraid to stand up for 
Jesus before all men. He gave his life for us, would we give an 
hour for him? He suffered scorn and agon}-, loss of all he held 
dear for us, would we bear a pain for Him? If we can truly say 
yes to this, we are blessed indeed. I could not say it a year ago, 
but my motto to-night is, " For Jesus only," and you know, 
brother, that it pays. There are stars behind the cross, but its 
the hand that knocks that receives the gifts ; so let us, then, come 
12 



178 LIFE SKETCHES OF 

boldly to the throne of grace, knowing that the price has been paid 
for us, our sins washed away in blood — borne by Him who knew 
no sin, and our lives in eternity have been purchased at the cost of 
a life on Calvary. And now may God help us on the way. We 
were lost, but are found, so let us give to God the glory ; we have 
changed our sin-stained garments for the armor of God, our spirit 
of heaviness for the song of the ransomed, and the feet that shrink 
and faltered, are anchored on the solid rock, so let us rejoice ; we 
are born again, let us give God the glory. Hosanna to the Son 
of David ! Glory to His name ! And now, before closing, I will 
say, you are not forgotten at our meetings, and we know the arm 
of God has not grown short. Yours in His name, 

EsTELLE Lucie. 



Spring of 1890, Jamestown, N. Y. 

The most desperate encounter with Swedish devils that I ever 
had. I was invited to visit Ida Swanson, 307 Barrett Street, bj^ 
her sister, Anna Benson, of 35 Lake View Ave., who sent fifty cents 
to pay hack fare. There was a mistake made in the number of 
the street given me, which caused me two trips on Swede Hill. As 
quickly as I learned of the street and No., and could get through 
with some pressing work at the Home, my son, Mrs. "Waggoner, 
and myself went there, and were received courteously by the 
family. I prayed for Mrs. Monquest, an elderly lady, who was 
wonderfully blessed and healed. 

The second one who took the chair was her daughter Emma, 
a young woman who was very frail from overwork, she claimed a 
complete victory. The third person who took the chair for healing 
was Ida Swanson, she had what I called consumption of the 
throat, and I soon found her to be filled with devils. I said they 
were the most desperate devils I had ever met in the seven years 
of my work. 

When I gave them the thrust of the Sword of the Spirit, they set 
up a hideous yell, that frightened the children and the neighbors. 
In a few moments the victory was obtained, and she was rejoicing, 
her countenance changed, and she hugged her mother, said that 
she saw the Saviour, and as I was just ready to go to my meeting 
at Sister Fennor's, corner of Marvin and Dickerson Streets, there 
seemed to return seven more devils, more desperate and wicked 
than those we had cast out, finding the house swept, garnished, 



ELDER W. G. RAYMOND. 179 

and empty, for Christ had not come in, they took possession of 
her, and set up a howl that would remind one of a pack of gray 
wolves, on the scent for blood in the last stages of starvation, such 
shrieks and yells, no one ever heard before in this citj^ The 
children cried and were frightened, the house was filled with men 
and women, who appeared more like wild hyenas, than civilized 
people, and we were compelled to give the case up by these out- 
siders, as they threatened violence, if we didn't leave, but the 
family treated us civilly throughout. Two of them visited me 
Sunday, at the house 68 Steele Street, and I believe that they 
are in sympathy with our work ; as before others they made an 
apology, and asked me to excuse the excitement, as it was made by 
outsiders, which I did, and they report that she is more quiet to-day. 
The most excited person who was present sought to have me 
arrested, but failed, yet he did influence an editor of one of the 
papers to publish a most slanderous account of the affair, but I 
have forgiven him. The other paper gave a favorable report of my 
work, yet there were a large number of Swedes healed and saved. 
God bless the Swedish nation, and lead them unto the truth. 

W. G. Raymond. 



A Very Marked Case of Casting of Devils Occurred 

June 2, 1890. 

68 Steel St., Jamestown, Chaut. Co., N. Y.^ 

June 20, 1890. 

I had just held a meeting in Broadhead Hall, this city, and was 
obliged to adjourn at 10 o'clock. The order to do so was imper- 
ative from the proprietor. I was moved to say that if anybody 
wished to be prajxd for, to come to the Home (68 Steele St.). I 
gave them to understand that they could worship God there as long 
as they pleased. There was quite a number who came over with 
me. The meeting continued with great power until one o'clock in 
the morning, when my attention was called to Mrs. Emily Dal- 
erymple, of No. 4 Price St., this city. 

The lady had been led out as a spiritual medium. While under 
the influence of the Devil, she could speak several languages. 
She was told by more than one influential man of high standing 
financially, that she had a fortune if she would step right out in the 



180 LIFE SKETCHES OP 

current as a spiritual medium. She knew that it was of the Devil, 
for she had seen him. The night that we were at the Hall, he 
appeared to her, and beckoned her to come out ; then he made faces 
and said : " Come out of there, for it is no place for you." While 
she was looking at that scoffing Devil, she looked up for a moment 
and saw a cross, on it a person seemingly in great agony. It 
appeared to her to be Christ, but it soon passed away. The devils 
followed her to the second meeting, and had arranged their bat- 
teries and their forces to defend her. This I saw clearly. There 
were legions of them. In all her life of sin she had never 
rejected Jesus, and believes that this was the ground for the hope 
of her salvation. In my conversation I told her that the 
case was a desperate one ; that she was placed as a fly on a spi- 
der's web, and that the Devil's webs were nearly completed, but I 
believed that his web could be broken. She acted and seemed to 
be quite passive. Then I learned from her that her father, G. W. 
Drake, was born in Steuben Co., N. Y., where I held meetings 
forty-seven years ago last February, when I was first ordained : 
and that he lived, and is still living a desperate life of sin, — yet 
an intellectual man, and what the world would call fine looking. 
When young he was called the handsomest man in Steuben County. 
His hair hung in beautiful curls upon his shoulders. I had almost 
decided to let the case pass over until another time, as the workers 
seemed to be weary. My son, Elder E. L. Raymond, had laid 
down on the lounge and fallen asleep, — when the order came, 
through the Holy Ghost, moving me to sit down in a chair by her 
side. I placed my left hand upon her head, and my right hand 
upon her stomach. In the name of Jesus I then served a notice 
on the Devil to leave her body. It was preemptive and positive, 
I then was called to use the Sword of the Spirit, as recorded in 
Heh. iv : 12. The sword reaching the devils behind her volition, 
scattered them in every direction ; and it seemed to her that her 
head would burst. This sword followed on the line of evil 
thoughts until it reached the heart, where there was a nest of 
vipers. They went hissing in every direction. I gave one thrust 
of the sword at the stomach devils, and I believe I wounded every 
one of them, then they made a desperate effort to get out. She 
afterwards said that at this point it seemed as if all her flesh was 
being pulled off her body. Two of them, in their great struggle, 
went out through the neck. To those who had the gift of spirit- 



ELDER W. G. RAYMOND. 181 

ual discernment, their forms were like the head of a pig. And 
such a squeeling sound followed as can be realized only at the 
death struggle of hogs. All in the room heard the noise, and 
some were frightened. Any one could have heard it a square 
away had they been awake. When the noise commenced her 
mouth was shut and her eyes were closed. She sprang to her feet 
and began to fight desperately with her hands, repelling them. My 
son rose up just in time, and having the gift of spiritual discern- 
ment, saw them come through her neck and heard the noise. A 
lady from Ohio, formerly of N. H., Mrs. E. M. Critchet, who lives 
on the corner of Main and Fourth Streets, this city, sitting near my 
son, saw the same that he saw. She also has the gift of discern- 
ment. She commenced at once resisting the devils, as she went 
through the parlors, — for the house seemed filled with them. 
Then the order came to bind them and to convey them to the lower 
regions, never to enter another human being on earth. 

She was also aflaicted with a rupture in the abdomen, just below 
the stomach, about five inches long and two inches wide. In the 
upper end of this rupture was a tumor which had been increasing^ 
for some time, and caused her much trouble. After the devils were 
cast out, in a very short time she found the breech closed up, the 
tumor all gone, and she was several inches smaller round. To 
God be all the glory. Bro. John Peterson had just retired to his 
bed up stairs and had fallen asleep, when one of the devils got hold 
of his throat, and commenced choking him. He felt through his 
whole body as if he would be paralyzed. He sprang to li,is feet, 
hastened down stairs, and my son cast the devils from him. 

In a few moments Jesus came into the lady's heart, and she was 
gloriously saved. I baptized her in the Chautauqua outlet, June 
15th ; for she felt that she had come into an entirely new life. 
Just before she went under the water, and while she was under, it 
seemed as she said afterwards, that there was a bright light before 
her face. When she came out, all saw the light of Heaven reflected 
in her countenance. She raised her hand towards heaven and 
shouted, " Glor}' to God," — and stood for some minutes praising 
God before the people. She has testified in ever}^ meeting she has 
attended since, to what God has done for her. She is now labor- 
ing to save those who are in the same current of death she was in, 
and requests all to pray that she may be kept faithful unto the 
end. Sister Waggoner and daughters, the sister who keeps the 



182 



LIFE SKETCHES OF 



Home, Mary Anderson, Mrs. E. M. Critchet, and Sister Lena 
Berman were present. The following names certify to the truth 
of this statement : Elder W. G. Raymond, Pastor of the Church 
of God; Elder E. L. Raymond, Assistant Pastor, Mt. Jewett, 
McKeen Co., N. Y., Box 104. 



Office of the Elmira Telegram. 

Elmira, N. Y., June 26, 1890. 
W. G. Raymond, 68 Steele St., Jamestown, N. Y., 

Dear Sir : — We return the inclosed manuscript and $1 in 
stamps. We cannot use the matter to advantage. Yours truly. 

The Telegram Co. 

This letter, referring to Mrs. Emily Dalerymple, was sent to the 
Elmira Telegram for publication, at her request, but proved too 
heavy a matter for them, as will be seen from their reply. 

w. G. R. 



(Jamestown News, N. Y., July 4, 1890.) 

Elder Raymond's Meetings. 

The Hall Dedicated Last Evening at the Boatlanding. 

Elder Ra3^mond held dedication services in the hall in the 
Starkweather building at the boatlanding last evening. The 
attendance was not as large as might have been expected, but 
the meeting made up in interest what was lacking in numbers. 
The dedicatory services. Elder Raymond explained, were not so 
much that the building was dedicated, but that the people, the 
Christian people of the church, were dedicated to God. The 
services consisted of a simple ceremony, those present clasping 
hands during a season of prayer and joining hands during the 
singing of the Doxology at the close. 

A lady was miraculously healed at 68 Steele Street, j^esterday, 
of tumor, the afHiction being said to pass from sight during the 
prayer service. 

There will be a meeting at the new home, and the elder invites 
the afflicted to meet him at 68 Steele Street for aid. 



ELDER W. G. RAYMOND. 183 

Elder Raymond's Meeting, at Jamestown, N. Y. 

A fairly well attended meeting was held at the residence of N. 
Ottoson on Camp Street last evening. Elder Raymond was present 
and conducted the services, which were very interesting. On 
Friday evening, a meeting will be held at the residence of Edward 
Green, 21 Weeks Street, and on Saturday night services will 
be again held at the home of N. Ottoson on Camp Street. The 
Elder is expected to be present at both meetings. Owing to 
praj^er services the regular Wednesday evening meetings will 
hereafter be held on Saturday night. During the day the Elder 
will remain at 68 Steele Street, where he will be pleased to meet 
all persons suffering from disease in any form. 



Extracts from Ethan Allen's Letters. 

All Hail Dear Brother Raymond : — May peace be and abide 
with thee in the name of Jesus. 

Your blessed life-giving letter was duly received. Was exceed- 
ingly glad to hear from you. I received your testimony as validly 
true ; written in the spirit of Jesus. I recollect all the workings 
of the spirit in Lizzie Bonan's case. The Lord was increasing 
your power, and Sister Perry's power to assist. At the same 
time showed me that I was at liberty to go from that time. I had 
no power while I staid. You had your two true yoked fellow 
helpers, faith and courage, yet it was shown me that she must be 
followed up faithfully. 

When Lizzie was with you she was like a child which was 
beginning to walk. She had not got strong enough to be put into 
a room with reckless children. She could not stand and walk in 
such a place with no one to help her, but it has proved that 
good has come out of it. That gave you the starting experience 
of casting out devils, and the Lord has given you a farther and 
most glorious experience. You are going out right. There are 
some who have been preachers of the gospel who have gone so far 
into spiritualism, as to reject the Bible, and Jesus as a divine 
Saviour. I think I am shown that in such cases there is no hope. 
A number of other cases where I have been sent for, the Lord has 
shown me that it was unto death, and I need not pray for them. 



184 LIFE SKETCHES OF 

I have found persons who knew they were possessed of devils, yet 
had no particular desire to get out of the situation they were in, 
not even enough to be willing their friends should ask some one to 
pray for them. I rather some one totally bereft of reason should 
be presented to me to pray for in some asylum, than to undertake 
one who is sensible of their condition but indifferent, and dead to 
the desire to be delivered from the bondage of the devil. The Lord 
has led me in a wonderful manner the past year in spiritual and 
temporal things. The Lord was with me in Baltimore. I would 
like to see you very much. I think you have taken a bold stand, 
so. many shrink from so bold a position in public. They fear 
fanaticism on your part. You and I are not alway to be learning 
and never come to the knowledge of the truth. If we ever get the 
knowledge of this work it will cost us something, if we come down 
to the bottom of buying the truth aud selling it not. If we are 
founded on the rock, let the winds of the devil blow, and the 
hurricane rock, even it shall blow away from us a good reputation, 
and leave us stripped as the Master was. He took the form of a 
servant and became of no reputation, but He was honored of God. 
If we deal truly as Jesus did we shall be honored of the Father and 
the Son, a double honor. Glory to the Father and Son, they 
never go back on us, therefore hold fast. Our rock is higher than 
our enemies rock. * * * 

I have learned that '' we must forsake houses and land, wife 
and children for Christ's sake." My experience has been most 
blessed, and I would not have it blotted out for all the honor the 
world could heap upon me. 

Your brother in J6sus, the life giver, 

Ethan O. Allen. 



All Hail Dear Brother Raymond : — May the peace of God keep 
your heart and mind abounding in the work of the Lord, for as 
much as ye know your labor is not in vain in the Lord. * * * 

I am not surprised at your success, for we read the righteous 
are as bold as a lion. If the Lord wants us to take hold by faith 
of the lion in his den, then let us go for him, aud wage a war with 
him in his den, after driving him back, that looks like casting out 
all devils. Some of these come out only by fasting and prayer, 
but there is a way when the Lord leads us in the face of the devils 



ELDER W. G. RAYMOND. 185 

with the name of Jesus on our tongues. We are commissioned as 
believers in this blessed name. Jesus says " they shall cast out 
devils." He does not limit us in this matter. If we are limited it 
is in ourselves, not of God. Yours in Jesus, 

Ethan O. Allen. 



Finall}'^, let me say to all the dear saints, "Be strong in the 
grace that is in Christ Jesus. And the things that thou has heard 
of me among many witnesses, the same commit thou to faithful 
men, who shall be able to teach others also. Thou, therefore, 
endure hardness as a good soldier of Jesus Christ." Kemember, 
that "No man that wareth entangleth himself with the affairs of 
this life ; that he may please him who hath chosen him to be a 
a soldier." " Consider what I say ; and the Lord give thee under- 
standing in all things. Remember that Jesus Christ of the seed 
of David was raised from the dead according to my gospel. 
Wherein I suffer trouble as an evil doer, * * * but the word of 
God is not bound. Therefore I endure all things for the elects 
sake that they may also obtain the salvation which is in Christ 
Jesus with eternal glor3\ It is a faithful sajdng : For if we be 
dead with him, we shall also live with him. If we suffer, we shall 
also reign with him : if we deny him, he also will deny us : If we 
believe not, yet, he abideth faithful : he cannot deny himself. Of 
these things put them in remembrance, charging them before the 
Lord that they strive not about words to no profit, but to the sub- 
verting of the hearers. Study to show thj'self approved unto God, 
a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the 
word of truth. But shun profane awd vain babblings : for they 
will increase into more ungodliness. And their word will eat as 
doth a canker. Neverthless the foundation of God standeth sure, 
having this seal. The Lord knoweth them that are his. And let 
every one that nameth the name of Christ depart from iniquity. 
But in a great house there are not only vessels of gold and of 
silver, but also of wood and of earth ; and some to honor and 
some to dishonor. If a man therefore purge himself from these, he 
shall be a vessel unto honor, sanctified, and meet for the Master^s 
use, and prepared unto every good work. Flee also youthful 
lusts : but follow righteousness, faith, charity, peace, with them that 
call on the Lord out of a pure heart. But foolish and unlearned 



186 LIFE SKETCHES OF 

questions avoid, knowing that they do gender strifes. And the 
servant of the Lord must not strive ; but be gentle unto ail men, 
apt to teach, patient : In meekness instructing those that oppose 
themselves ; if God, peradventure will give them repentance to 
the acknowledging of the truth ; And that they may recover them- 
selves out of the snare of the devil, who are taken captive by him 
at his will." We are now in " the last days," and " perilous 
times have come." Many are *■' lovers of their own selves covet- 
ous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, 
unthankful, unholy. Without natural affection, trucebreakers, 
false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are 
good. Traitors, heady, highminded, lovers of pleasures more 
than -lovers of God ; having a form of godliness, but denying the 
power thereof: from such turn away. For of this sort are they 
which creep into houses, and lead captive sillj^ women laden with 
sins, led away with divers lusts. Ever learning, and never able to 
come to the knowledge of the truth. Now as Jannes and Jambres 
withstood Moses, so do these also resist the truth ; men of corrupt 
minds, reprobate concerning the faith." I charge those in the 
gospel ministry, " Before God and the Lord Jesus Christ, who 
shall judge the quick and the dead at his appearing and his king- 
dom : Preach the word ; be instant in season, out of season : re- 
prove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine. For 
the time has come when people do not endure sound doctrine, but 
after their own lusts they heap to themselves teachers, having 
itching ears " ; And they " turn away their ears from the truth ; " 
and are "turned unto fables. But watch thou in all things, 
endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of 
thy ministry." "Be patient, brethren, unto the coming of the 
Lord. Behold the husbandman waiteth for the precious fruit of 
the earth, and hath long patience for it, until he receive the early 
and latter rain. Be 3'e also patient ; stablishyour hearts : for the 
coming of the Lord draweth nigh. Grudge not one against 
another, brethren, lest ye be condemned : behold, the judge 
standeth before the door. Take, my brethren, the prophets, who 
have spoken in the name of the Lord, for an example of suffering 
affliction, and of patience." " Beloved, when I gave all diligence 
to write unto you of the common salvation, it was needful for me 
to write unto you, and exiiort you that 3'e earnestl}^ contend for 
the faith which was once delivered unto the saints. For there are 



ELDER W. G. RAYMOND. 187 

certain men crept in unawares, who were before of old ordained 
to this condemnation, ungodly men, turning the grace of our 
God into lasciviousness, and denying the only Lord God, and our 
Lord Jesus Christ. I will therefore put you in remembrance, 
though ye once knew this, how that the Lord having saved the 
people out of the land of Egypt, afterward destroyed them that 
believed not." 

*' But yet, beloved, building up yourselves on your most holy 
faith, praying in the Holy Ghost, Keep yourselves in the love of 
God, looking for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ unto enternal 
life. And of some have compassion, making a difference : And 
others save with fear, pulling them out of the fire ; hating even 
the garment spotted by the flesh. Now linto him that is able to 
keep you from falling, and to present you faultless before the 
presence of his glory with exceeding joy, To the only wise God 
our Saviour, he glory and majesty, dominion and power, both 
now and ever. Amen." 






Chapter XII. 



A Bird's-eye Sketch of the Wonderful Work of Grace in 
Chelsea, Boston, and not only the Surrounding Cities, 

BUT EXTENDING THROUGH THE UnITED StATES, AND INTO 

VARIOUS Foreign Countries. Marvellous and 

MARKED, BEYOND EXPRESSION HAVE BEEN MANY 

CASES OF THE CASTING OuT OF DeVILS, AND 

THE OBTAINING OF FULL SaLVATION 

THROUGH FAITH IN THE BLOOD OF 

OUR Lord Jesus Christ. 



Chelsea, Mass., 13 George St. 

A Child Shall Lead Them. 

I have been solicited by the friends of the Mission, my 
co-laborers, to write an article for Elder Raymond's book, showing 
forth some of the characteristics of the meetings. It was in the 
month of August, 1890, that a dear little babe was brought to me, 
to find for it a home, or some kind friend who would adopt it. (I 
could not keep it myself.) I accordingly wrote to friends in James- 
town, N. Y., whose hearts were ever open for every good word 
and work. They quickly responded, and gave me a cordial invita- 
tion to bring the little one to their hospitable care. While there 
I heard wonderful reports, of a grand work, going on in the town, 
through the labors and faithful teachings of Elder Raymond. 
During the few days of my stay there : I attended some of his 
meetings, and saw an extraordinarj'- case of healing, which caused 
my heart to rejoice more than ever, in the Great Physician of both 
body and soul. Some of the Christian workers in Chelsea, prayed 
that God would send some one to help in our Mission work, and 
preach the full gospel to lost men and women. Our brother stated 
that he intended to visit Massachusetts, the coming summer or 
fall, and perhaps, might give Boston a call. I gave him a cordial 




LITTLE MAGGIE PERRY AND AUNT. 

(A Welch girl, baptized at about four years of age.) 



ELDER W. G. RAYMOND. 189 

invitation to visit our Mission, as there was plenty of work to do. 
On my return to Chelsea, I consulted the workers. We prayed 
over it, leaving it with the Lord, to arrange, and perfect it. 
After waiting, and praying several weeks, we received a letter, 
that he would be here, if there was an open door. We promptly 
replied, that the doors were open, and that we were all waiting 
for him. Elder Raymond came on Saturday and has now been 
with us, upwards of eight months, and the blessing of God, has 
been upon the work. The work has been represented from nearly 
or quite all the surrounding towns, cities, and suburbs. Some 
coming from distant cities, as far west, as California. More 
than two hundred souls, have surrendered themselves to God, 
quite a percentage of that number, have found Jesus in our library 
room, where the people were received for over five months, quite 
a number of them were infidels from Boston. Some sixty or more 
have been baptized by Elder Raymond. There have been many 
marked cases of healing, and still the work goes on, which shows 
it is of the Lord. The following testimonies of healing, will 
speak for themselves. Yours in Christ, 

H. B. Hastings. 



Chelsea, June 30, 1891. 
Dear Brother Raymond : — My eyes have troubled me for fifteen 
years. The past year they have been so bad I could not see any 
object clearl}^ At times was entirely blind. No glasses would 
fit me so that I could see. I asked the Lord what I should do 
and he directed me to you. While you were praying, and my 
e3'es were covered, there was a brightness, like a flash of light 
went through them, and I knew the work was done. The Lord 
always comes to me as a shining light. When your prayer was 
ended everything looked clear, and I saw yoxx for the first time. 
It has been several weeks and they are still well. Praise the 
Lord ! Yours respectfully, 

Mrs. Douglass. 



9 Vale St., Chelsea, Mass., July 30, 1891. 

Dear Brother Raymond : — I take great pleasure in being able to 
testify to the great healing power of the Lord. 



190 LIFE SKETCHES OF 

My little girl was very sick with the grippe and it left her with a 
very bad cold and hard of hearing. I took her to Brother Ray- 
mond and he prayed for her twice, and she was cured at once and 
could hear as plainly as ever she could before she was sick. 

Ever since I was fifteen years old I have been plagued with 
swelling rheumatism through all m}^ joints, and could not do any- 
thing for it. I went to see Brother Raymond and he prayed for 
me, and I was cured at once. And 1 have been attending his 
meetings since Christmas. Yours, 

John Schroder. 



133 Walnut Street, Chelsea, Mass. 
I am glad to give my testimony to the power of God to heal and 
to save. I had been sick five years with bronchical consumption 
when Elder Raymond came to Chelsea. I saw in the word of God 
that He had laid down a prescription for all sick and suffering 
ones. I talked with some, who did not believe it, or thought those 
days were passed, but as I saw no hope for any help, aside from 
God, I was led to go to Bro. Raymond. He anointed me with oil 
and prayed for me, and I felt the power of God go through my 
entire being. I was able to walk home without* shortness of 
breath, and did so, rejoicing in Jesus as a Saviour, as well as a 
healer. Oh ! that all would see that " He healeth all our diseases " as 
well as that " He forgiveth all our iniquities." My healing brought 
my husband to see his need of such a friend as I had found, and 
he gave himself to the same Saviour, so we now have a joyous and 
happy home. We were soon baptized by Bro. Raymond, which, 
although in the month of February and very cold, I experienced 
no bad results. To God be all the glory. 

Mrs. Thos. S. Hyde. 

■ This dear Sister Hyde's Christian experience was brilliant, 
though short.^ During these months she had done many heavy 
washings, and in the hottest day of June, took up and dusted a 
carpet, (her husband being busily engaged during the day), pre- 
paratory to moving. She would walk to and from the meetings 
nearly every night, sometimes to East Boston, beside attending 
in the daytime. All of which numbered as many as eight during 
the week. Also she would walk to East Boston to the 



ELDER W. G. RAYMOND. 191 

baptisms, so much so, that some thought her imprudent. In all 
these meetings she claimed her healing, and was prompt to tell 
the people what the Lord had done for her. In lifting and arrang- 
ing things in their new home, she broke a blood vessel, and hem- 
orrhage followed. Prayer was offered, when it would stop, but 
over-exertion would bring it on. During these spells she would say, 
" If I die, I want Elder Raymond to attend my funeral," which I 
did. Before she died, she sang in a full voice the hymn, " I have 
anchored my soul in the haven of rest." Looking at some flowers 
in the room, she remarked, '' These are beautiful, but nothing to 
what we will have there." Then calling for the looking-glass, as 
she looked in, said, '' Now I am read}', I want you all to come 
and meet me there, — said good-bye," and fell asleep in the arms 
of Jesus, leaving a brighter smile on her countenance than she 
wore when living. She left a dear little boy, whose heart was all 
broken to pieces, as they lowered her into the grave. Her dear 
husband needs our sympathy and prayers. I believe God was 
glorified in the four or five months of health and joy, which she 
experienced. " Be ye also ready, for in an hour that ye think not, 
the Son of Man cometh." " What I say unto you, I say unto all, 
watch." w. R. G. 



Chelsea, Mass., July, 1891. 
Elder W. G. Raymond, 

Dear Sir : — I feel moved of the Lord to give my testimony of 
healing, and also that of ir-y daughter, Etta M. Sanford, our only 
child. For several j^ears I had what the doctors called a spinal 
difficulty, which affected m}^ kidneys, and other portions of my 
body, bringing on serious weaknesses that deprived me of man}' of 
the enjoyments of life. Once in about two months the attacks 
would be very severe, and lasting quite a length of time. Hearing 
and seeing some of the miracles wrought through Elder Raymond, 
by the laying on of hands and prayer, in the name of Jesus, I was 
moved of the Lord to go to him. I was anointed in the name of 
the Lord, hands were laid on me, prayers offered, and I was im- 
mediately healed. To God be all the glory. 

My daughter was ruptured when she was ten years old, is now 
fifteen ; the treatment that she had to go under by the doctors 
brought on eczema, then the doctor told me he could not cure her. 



192 LIFE SKETCHES OF 

for it was a bad thing to have. I took her to Elder Raj-mond, 
and it was all removed in a very short time, and she has been a 
well child ever since. I thank God that 3'ou were sent where we 
could see and know you. We were immersed b}'' Elder Raymond 
in the Mystic river, East Boston. My husband, also, has been 
several times miraculously' healed, as well as gloriously saved, and 
we are now a happy f amly. I could fill several sheets had 3'ou the 
space, telling of the many blessings my family has received 
through you. Mrs. Esther Sanford. 

Miss Etta M. Sanford. 



The Testimony of a Welch Family. 

29 Washington Ave., Chelsea, Mass. 
Dear Brother Raymond: — I take opportunit}' to testify and 
thank God that he ever sent our dear brother. Elder Raymond, to 
Chelsea. For my little girl, Maggie, we have spent quite an 
amount of money in doctoring ; but all in vain until some time last 
spring, we took her to Bro. Raymond to be prayed for. She had 
not slept for a good many nights before taking her, having a severe 
pain in her ear, but after our brother prayed with her, she was well 
hat moment. I thank God, and our brother, from the bottom of my 
heart. She has been well ever since, until two weeks since, when 
she was quite bad with her stomach, when she wished us to take her 
to Elder Raymond, and her aunt took her to our dear brother, and 
after he prayed with her she was well right away, and is so at pres- 
ent. She is also praising God, and Elder Raymond's name, all 
day long. She is four years and five months old, and her favorite 
hymn is, " Happy day, happy day, when Jesus washed my sins 
away." We are respectfully, 

Griffith and Ellen Perry. 



H. H. Huntley's Testimony. 

In gratitude to God for His mercies and goodness to me, in 
raising me up from a severe illness ; and that some poor suffering 
one may be led to take this great Physician who is able to heal 
them from all their sickness and to cleanse them from all their sins, 
I give this testimony; The last of March, 1891, I took a severe 
cold that settled on my lungs, and called the doctor. He said I had 



ELDER W. G. RAYMOND. 193 

pneumonia, bronchitis and la grippe, either disease severe enough 
to cause my death. I lay two days unconscious, my wife and 
friends expecting my death any moment. The third day m^^ wife 
called in Elder Raymond, who anointed and prayed for me. In 
less than one-half hour after prayer was offered I rallied and 
became conscious, felt hungry and asked for something to eat. 
My wife gave me toast, preserves, and a cup of tea, which I ate with 
a relish, and from that day I gained steadily, until I became per- 
fectly well. And to-day I am in better health than I have been 
for years. To God I give all the glory. 

H. H. Huntley, 
130 Spencer Ave., Chelsea, Mass. 



35 Washington Ave., Chelsea, June, 1891. 

For a long time I was severely afflicted with sciatica, inflam- 
matory and muscular rheumatism. I tried all of the best phy- 
sicians here, but received no lasting benefit. It became a settled 
question that the disease was chronic, and there was no help for 
me. I was obliged to sit in a large chair every night, as I could not 
lie down. As a last resort I was persuaded to call on Elder 
Raymond, who believes that God heals in answer to the prayer of 
faith. 

To my gratification my pain all left me in a half hour after he 
anointed me and prayed, and I came home with my cane under 
my arm. Have not been obliged to use it since. Have slept on 
my bed every night since. I thank the Lord for sending such a 
godly man into Chelsea, where so many suffering people have 
been cured in answer to his prayer of faith. 

Respectfully, 

F. W. Parks. 



156 Chester Ave., Chelsea, Mass., May, 1891. 
For the glory of God and the encouragement of any who may 
be afflicted with disease, I want to give a condensed account of 
how I was raised up from a sick bed, in answer to prayer, the 24th 
day of last April. The 23d I was taken with a bad feeling in 
my head, which lasted till noon the day following. 
13 



194 LIFE SKETCHES OF 

While I was eating my dinner alone in the shop, at No. 173 
Fulton Street, Boston, where I work, the pain grew suddenlj^ 
worse in m}'^ head, and I was terribly sick at the stomach, and 
grew very cold. I felt that I could not walk down stairs to the 
street, or call to any one for assistance, so I wrapped m}^ over- 
coat about me, and in great agony waited for some one to come 
in. I had not waited long before a gentleman who was at work 
near by came in and found me suffering much, and slightly wan- 
dering in my mind. And at my request, he sent immediately for 
a herdic, and I was soon on my way to Chelsea. When I reached 
home I was quite unbalanced in mind, ard with some difficulty 
found the door and got into the house. I think in half an hour after 
I reached home I was so blind that I could not see anything, my 
nerves were thoroughly unstrung, and I was so out of my mind 
that I knew scarcely any one, but talked wildly, and grew worse 
very fast, but praise the Lord, He gave me " ears to hear," and 
the sound of Jesus' name was sweet music to my ear, and it meant 
" Life, health, and peace." 

My wife dropped on her knees and plead with the great phy- 
sician, and I understood what she meant, and believed He would 
heal me, though I knew I was growing worse all the time. It was 
impossible for me to control myself, at times I would weep aloud, 
at other times would laugh heartily. 

As soon as possible Brother Raymond was sent for, and he lost 
no time in coming to my bedside, but I never should have known 
that he came, if I had not recovered, for I was wholly out of my 
mind, and was told afterwards that I talked strangely to him. 
Brother Raymond anointed me with oil and prayed, laying his 
hands on, according to Scripture, rebuking the enemy in the name 
of Jesus Christ, and soon went away. In a few moments I sud- 
denly opened my eyes and said to my wife, *' I can see ! Is not 
that good?" I was perfectly calm, my head was clear, and 
we praised God for such a glorious deliverance. It was, no 
doubt, a case of la grippe. The enemy seemed determined to 
capture my brain, as Brother Raymond said himself. He prayed 
three times before having the assurance that I was healed. We 
afterwards learned that about the same time a lady in Boston was 
taken with the same disease, affecting her in precisely the same way, 
and in her disease " sought not the Lord, but the physicians," 
and she died in six hours from the time she was taken. We 



ELDER W. G. RAYMOND. 195 

believe the Lord healed me in answer to prayer, and we give Him 
all the glor3^ I went to work the next morning as usual to the 
great surprise of some who knew of my sickness, and those who 
were with me in my ravings. I have worked every day since. 
Praise His dear name forever. F. S. Sprague. 



Chelsea, June 3, 1891. 
Dear Brother Raymond : — I feel it my duty towards God, and 
towards you, to send in my testimony of the healing of my leg. 
I am a blacksmith, and in breaking a bar of iron a piece struck 
on the small part of the leg, where I had been wounded twice 
before. Both times had to leave work and have a doctor until it 
was healed. This blow broke the skin, and it soon spread until 
it was a very bad sore, half the size of my hand. I had a doctor, 
but it grew worse. I had been to the mission several times, and 
seen some of the wonderful healings in answer to your praj'ers 
of faith. I gave up the doctor, and came and had you anoint it 
with oil in the name of the Lord, and was prayed with. Felt 
better, then simply tied a handkerchief around it, so it would not 
chafe, and went to Boston to work, and have continued to work 
ever since. You prayed for me three times and the leg was well. 
I used no ointment or medicine. I recognize the healing power of 
our Lord Jesus Christ. I believe you use the power as did Peter 
and John on the impotent man in Acts iii : 6 ; also believe we must- 
fulfill the conditions as laid down in Marie xvi : 18, and James v : 
14. Praise the Lord, that '' He is the same yesterday, to-day, 
and forever." I am thankful to God, and to you, Brother 
Raymond, for the healing of that diseased leg. 

Robert Rest all. 



My sister wants me to add her testimony to being healed in 
answer to prayer. She was stopping at Brother Hastings in 
March, 1891, as she has no home. Was taken very sick with 
erysipelas in her face. It swelled so her eyes were closed tightly. 
There were very large blisters on her cheeks. She grew so very 
sick that Sister Hastings became alarmed for fear there would be 
a complaint made if she did not consult a physician. Elder 
Raymond was in the house, but had such crowds there for healing, 
that we felt his strength was hardly equal to them, so delayed calling 
him to come and pray with her. While Sister Hastings was gone to 



196 LIFE SKETCHES OF 

consult a doctor, one of the workers was led to ask him to go up 
and see her. Three went up and knelt at her bedside ; she was 
then entirely blind. One of them prayed, but before the prayer 
was ended one eye came open. Another prayed and the other 
«ye came open. Then Elder Raymond prayed, and the distress 
left her. In a few hours the blisters were gone. Very soon she 
was down stairs well. 

The strange part is that she said to Brother Raymond as he 
knelt, " I do not know as I can unite my prayers with yours, as I 
have no home and do not care to live,'* feeling that she was pre- 
pared to go to the Mansions spoken of in John xiv. The healing 
was wholly of the Lord in answer to the prayer of faith. 

Maria Crabtree, By a Friend, Chelsea. 



Chelsea, May 4, 1891. 
Dear Elder Raymond : — My instantaneous healing through your 
prayer of faith of a most painful sore throat and threatened 
abscess, is but an added proof that the day of miracles is not 
past. Yours, J. P. Newcomb. 



520 Broadway, Chelsea, March 23, 1891. 
Elder Raymond, 

Dear Friend : — About thirteen years ago I met with an accident 
which resulted in a bad breach. I consulted three different 
doctors, and was informed by them all that my case was incurable, 
and all that I could do was to have a truss fitted, which I had 
to repeat three times, as my form changed I had to be refitted. 
I could not, during those thirteen years, stand up longer than 
ten minutes without putting on my truss. In addition to the 
above my heart and liver were affected, and I was so bloated 
that I could hardly do my work at times as my breath was so 
short. 

Having heard of some of the cures performed under your 
hands, in the name of the Lord, I concluded to consult you, 
which I did on the 17th of December last (1890), and I can 
truthfully say that I am cured. I have not had my truss on since, 
and I have had to take in my skirts about three or four inches to 
keep them from dropping off me. 

I thank God daily for my cure, and also that you came to 



ELDER W. G. RAYMOND. 197 

Chelsea. Hoping that God may spare you for many years, and 
that His power may be with you to the end, and that more 
wonderful cures than any that we have yet seen may be per- 
formed by the Lord Jesus Christ through you, I remain your sin- 
cere friend. Mrs. Ellen Clark. 



8 Watts Street, Chelsea, 1891. 
With hearts full of praise and thanksgiving for what God has 
done for our little boy through Elder Raymond, we want to add 
our testimony to the many. We had lost two children with con- 
sumption, and this child seemed to have the same disease settled 
on him. We went for Elder Raymond and he came and praj-ed 
with him, and he was instantly healed, and ate a hearty dinner. 
Has remained well ever since, except very sore eyes, for which 
our Brother pra3'ed and they were healed. Give God all the glory 
for His tender mercies and loving kindness to us. 

In His name, C. C. Staples. 

Martha A. Staples. 



Chelsea, Mass., April 21, 1891. 

Dear Elder Raymond : — It is with great pleasure and gratitude 
that I now write you a brief account of my healing under your 
hands. Words cannot express the gratitude that I feel to God 
for sending you to Chelsea. 

For over over fourteen years I had suffered with nervous 
trouble of the spine which frequently occasioned epileptic Jits, 
The first few years they were not ver}^ frequent, but as year after 
year went by I would have them oftener, so that any overtaxing 
of body or mind would prostrate me several days at a time. I have 
been treated by doctors in Novia Scotia, N. B., Hudson, Mass., 
Essex, Conn., and in Chelsea, Mass., but received no benefit, 
only for a time. Last November when you came here and I 
learned of your faith work, I availed myself of the opportunity 
of being healed by the " anointing with oil, the laying on of 
hands, and the prayer of faith," which Chrifet tells us in His 
word " shall heal the sick, and the promise that God shall raise him 
up." 

It is now over five months since I was healed, and praise God 
I have not had an epileptic fit since, neither do I expect to, again. 



198 LIFE SKETCHES OF 

Nor have I had a bad spell with my spine, such as I have been accus- 
tomed to have. My throat, chest, and lungs are much stronger, 
and I can sing God's praises with greater ease and strength than I 
have done for many years. My heart's desire is that God will use 
me in that way as long as I live. I could speal? of other troubles 
of which I have been cured, but do not wish to take too much 
space in your book. 

I bless God for sending Elder Raymond to Chelsea. May he 
be spared many years to perform even greater works, is the earnest 
prayer of Mrs. Alice P. Steele. 

This lady is organist in the hall where the meetings are now 
held. w. G. R. 



The Clifford, 
120 Walnut St., Chelsea, Aug. 12, 1891. 
Dear Elder Raymond: — May 8, 1891, I went to the house of 
Rev. H. L. Hastings, 13 George Street, to be prayed for by Elder 
Raymond, for the healing of my diseases, which were many. In 
the summer of 1869 I had seven hemorrhages of the lungs. And 
they followed me for three years, during the summer seasons. I 
was examined by seven physicians, and treated by them, and what 
is wonderful they all agreed that the blood came from the upper 
lobe of the left lung. Six physicians gave me up to die, and the 
seventh said I was in the second stage of consumption. When 
asked if he could cure me he said some in my condition he had, 
others he could not. He treated me several months, and I changed 
climate and came here near the salt water to live. I recovered 
from hemorrhages but did not get wholly over m}^ cough. A 
short time after this I began having bronchitis and asthma, my 
stomach, liver, and bowels were in a bad condition. One doctor 
went so far as to say my liver had been the cause of all my 
diseases. I was troubled often with bilious headaches so I would 
be completely prostrated. My bowels were very constipated so 
had to take physic as injections nearly every day. I had falling 
of the womb, and also rheumatism. After having La Grippe last 
March it settled in all my joints. At first I did not have the 
asthma all the time, but it grew upon me until it was ever present. 
Medicine would relieve me a little when I would have an extra 
hard attack. Ten physicians told me I could not be cured. 



ELDER W. G. RAYMOND. 199 

Change of climate might do something for me. I went to Cali- 
fornia, while I remained there was better, but when I returned my 
afflictions returned also. This is a true statement of my condi- 
tion when I went to Elder Raymond, he anointed me with oil, and 
laid his hands on, and prayed. The rheumatism all left me, also 
the female troubles, and my bowels have been active. I have had 
only slight touches of the asthma when I got cold, and only two 
of those awful headaches. Have been prayed with for those, and 
they have gone away almost immediately. I have taken no medi- 
cines or injections since I went to Elder Raymond. I know it is 
the power of God in answer to prayer that has done this for me, 
and I praise His Holy name for it. I thank God every day for 
sending Elder Raymond here and opening my eyes to the truth of 
healing as contained in the New Testament. I was not a Chris- 
tian when I went to be prayed for. One week from that day I was 
converted. In one month I was baptized. I know I have that 
" well of living water within me springing up into everlasting 
life." I thank my Heavenly Father every day for such an unsel- 
fish worker for the Master as Elder Raymond. Would to God 
there were more like him. Yours in Christ, 

Mrs. Jennie M. Chamberlain. 



For three years I have been troubled greatly with my head, a 
trouble which none of the doctors could reach with medicine. I 
heard of the work of Elder Raymond, under God, and I believed 
that if I met the conditions and was anointed with oil, in the name 
of the Lord, he would answer the prayer of faith for me. I 
applied to him as an Elder of the church, and the Lord made 
good his word and raised me up. To-day I am a well woman. 
Praise His dear name. He can do all things. 

Mrs. Robert R. Ross, 

16 Fourth Street, Chelsea. 



Dear Elder Raymond : — I should be a very ungrateful woman if 
I did not give God the glory in my testimony for my wonderful 
healing through the Lord Jesus Christ. 

I have suffered very much this winter, having had two abscesses, 
heart, and liver trouble. Everything I ate soured on my stomach, 
and the gas distressed me beyond measure. With all the rest I 



200 LIFE SKETCHES OF 

had nervous prostration, so bad it seemed as if I must scream 
at everything. Often I had to stand on m3''left foot the pain was 
so great in my right limb. I could not walk any distance from 
female weaknesses. The doctors advised me to go to the hospital, 
where an operation could be performed, saying it would take about 
six weeks, and I must be kept perfectly still, strapped down for 
fourteen days of that time, not moving hand or foot. Thanks to 
you and the Great Physician I am most blessedly healed. The 
six weeks are up to-day that they gave me for the operation, and 
I stand to-day a healed and saved woman without ever seeing the 
hospital. 

As soon as I was healed I looked to the Great Physician to be 
my Saviour as well as my healer. Thanks be to God, that as you 
took my case in prayer to Him, dear Brother Ra3'mond, the Lord 
most wonderfully heard and answered in my behalf and forgave 
my sins. Now I can believe God for everything. Blessed be His 
holy name. I know He hears and answers prayer, for He has 
heard and answered for my family. My husband is so kind. The 
children seem to try to do right. I can get along so much better 
with God to help me. I can walk all day now. My food does 
not distress me, the gases are all gone. I can lie on either side at 
night. I feel so thankful to God for His presence. May He 
continue to help you in your work. I trust I may at last see you 
waving your shining crown in glory, where sorrow never comes. 
May God bless you to multitudes of others is the prayer of 

Mrs. T. C. Sadler, 

70 Spencer Ave., Chelsea. 



Mrs. Caroline Peach, 85 Everett Ave., Chelsea, Mass., 
wishes to acknowledge that she has been completely cured of 
heart and stomach trouble of twenty-four years' standing, by 
Elder Raymond, through the prayer of faith. 



13 Spencer Ave., Chelsea, Mass. 
I have been troubled for twenty years with a chronic bladder 
and kidney disease. Have tried all kinds of remedies, but with 
no benefit. Went to the General Hospital and had four operations 
with only temporary relief. The 1st of January, 1890, the Lord 
graciously heard and answered the prayei of Sister Jennie Gold- 



ELDER W. G. RAYMOND. 201 

smith of Pictou, N. S., and I was healed. Not long since I had 
some symptoms return, and I began to dabble with medicine again 
until January, 1891, when I met with Elder Raymond, and he 
prayed with me and 1 am a well man. Praise the Lord. The 
devil gave me one severe test, but it was soon dispelled in answer 
to Elder Raymond's prayer. Glory to God. 

John Rines. 



29 Washington Av., 
Chelsea, Mass., Aug. 27th, 1891. 
Our Dear Brother, Elder Raymond : — We are taking this priv- 
ilege to testify about the healing of my dear wife last Monday 
night. She was coming from Boston, in company with her sister 
and little Maggie ; when the car reached that part of Broadway, 
between 4th and 5th Streets, she fainted away, but the neighbors 
all said that she had a shock of the palsy, as she was unable to use 
her left side, and her heart was beating very irregularly. We 
took her over to our dear brother Raymond, between 11 and 12 
o'clock that night. Although he was in bed it did not take him 
long to get up, he anointed, and laying on hands, prayed with 
her. My wife did not think she would live till morning. We do 
thank the Lord and our dear brother, for raising her up in ten 
minutes. She did not want a doctor during the attack. 
We remain 3'ours, respected brother, 

G. Perry, and my Wife, Ellen Perry. 

The above persons are a precious Welsh family, who have been 
gloriously saved from Catholicism, and baptized into the Church 
of God by myself, except little Maggie. w. g. r. 



Chelsea, 1891. 
I suffered many years with eczema. Tried various doctors, but 
they failed to cure me. After a while it grew so bad that it as- 
sumed the form of erysipelas. My face was swollen out of shape, 
and I was a great sufferer. I heard of Elder Raymond, and 
believing God was true to His promise in James v : 14, 15. " Is 
any sick among you ; let him call for the elders of the church and 
let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the 
Lord ; and the prayer of faith shall save the sick, and the Lord 
shall raise him up ; and if he have committed sins, they shall be 



202 LIFE SKETCHES OF 

forgiven him." I went to him, and he anointed me with oil in the 
name of the Lord, and offered the prayer of faith, and I began to 
improve, and am now well. Praise the Lord that " He is the same 
yesterday, to-day and forever." 

In the blessed Jesus, Addie Summers. 



Chelsea, 1891. 

Dear Brother Raymond: — I am glad to testify to the healing 
power of Jesus Christ. I suffered nine years with throat and 
lung trouble, also other diseases. My throat was in constant pain, 
to saj' nothing of the other pains in my body. I was doctored by 
most all the physicians in Chelsea, and many noted ones in Bos- 
ton — one being at the head of the General Hospital, but " was 
nothing bettered." One told me I had consumption, and if I did 
not have a change of climate I could not live but a few months. 
I heard of you dear Brother, and through your prayers have been 
healed body and soul, and' I can say praise God for all his good- 
ness to me. For over four months I have not taken one spoonful 
of medicine. Not only can I praise God that He has healed me 
through your prayers, but my husband has been healed of kidney 
trouble, and became a christian. 

I think if any one has reason to be thankful that you were led 
to Chelsea, I have. Praise the Lord. I can say to all sick ones, 
take Christ for your healer, and you will find Him a never failing 
physician. Your friend, Mary E. Briggs. 



Chelsea, 1891. 
I have suffered many years with heart trouble and dyspepsia. 
Have been under the doctor's treatment all the time, but found no 
relief. My wife was always anxious for fear I would drop dead, 
but God for Christ's sake had mercy on me and sent our beloved 
Brother Raymond here. I went to him, and through his prayers 
was healed body and soul. Christ has said " the prayer of faith 
shall save the sixjk and if they have committed sins it shall be for- 
given them." I have been a christian eight j^ears, but never knew 
what it was to be filled with the Spirit so to enjoy my religion — 
until I came under his teaching. My wife has been much bene- 
fitted bodily and spiritually, and we are constantly rejoicing in the 
Lord. We can never forget thanking Him that He sent our 



ELDER W. G. RAYMOND. 203 

beloved brother here. May God keep him long with us, is our 
daily prayer, and may his strength be equal to the work, for it is 
great. Half of the good he has done, can never be told until we 
get into Heaven. God bless Brother Raymond, H. Hanson. 



Chelsea, 1891. 
Dear Brother Raymond : — For a long time I was very sick with 
asthma. Confined to my bed. Had three different physicians, 
but they failed to cure me. 

Some two months ago I was told about your gift of healing, and 
praise the Lord, through your prayers was made whole. 

Yours respectfully, Arthur J. Bulfinch. 



Chelsea, Mass., April 24, 1891. 
Dear Brother Raymond: — I take pleasure in giving a statement 
of what the Lord has done for my body, in answer to the prayer of 
faith, offered by 3^ou in my behalf. For years I had been very much 
troubled with bronchitis, and especially during the spring of the 
year, and had a continuous cough for about two years, previous to 
my going to you. Praise the Lord I did not go in vain, for I was 
cured at once, and now have no cough and my throat is stronger. 
I had heart trouble. Some times very severe attacks, but that was 
cured instantly so I give this testimony, and hope it will encourage 
other suffering humanity to seek the Lord by faith for the cure of 
bodily diseases. Thanking the Lord that He let me cross your 
path, and you for your kindness. I remain, yours truly, 

Mrs. J. S. Eagar. 



Chelsea, Jujae 27, 1891, 
156 Chester Ave. 
Dear Brother : — I wanted to see you last evening, but as I failed 
I send you this. Mrs. Cudworth, the old lady whom you prayed 
with here is so anxious to see you, she fears to die, and O, if you 
could lead her to Jesus it would be so grand. 1 hope you can 
come to her soon. May the Lord strengthen you. 

Yours in Jesus' love, A. E. Sprague. 



204 LIFE SKETCHES. 

September 12, 1891. 
Elder Raymond, 

Dear Brother : — I am glad of the privilege to give you m}' testi- 
mony of healing for your book, and also of the power of Jesus 
Christ to save the soul. I had serious difficulty with my throat 
and lungs and was under the care of several doctors, who failed 
to afford me any relief. I was unsaved and ignorant of the heal- 
ing power in Jesus Christ. I came under your teachings. You 
anointed me with oil and with the laying on of hands, offered 
fervent prayer for me, and I was healed and gloriously saved. 
This was eight or nine months ago, and I have been healed ever 
since, and we've been a happy family. I have been baptised by 
yourself into the name of the Father, Son and Holy Ghost. I 
was compelled, previous to being healed, to rise and sit up for 
two or three hours at a time to get temporary relief. Thank 
God, I can sleep now, and I have been wonderfully drawn out 
to assist you in the laying on of hands and praying for the sick, 
and thank God I have seen some wonderful cases of healing. I 
can give God all the glorj. 

Ever your friend in Christ, 

Mrs. Sadie Wagner. 

156 Poplar St., Chelsea, Mass. 



149 A, Tremont St., Boston, July 6, 1891. 
Elder Raymond, 

Dear Brother: — My wife, (of whom Mrs. Grindall has probably 
spoken to you,) wishes to see you. She has been in Marlboro 
two weeks but has returned and wishes to know when you will be 
at home, so that she can come over to see you ; some afternoon 
will be better for her, as she wishes me to go with her, and I can 
leave better i^ the afternoon. Can she come Wednesday or 
Thursday? Yours truly, I. A. Salmon, D, Do S. 



Chapter XIII. 



A Brief of the Work in Chelsea, Boston, and Surroundings, 
Commencing in the Month of November, 1890. 



N Saturday, Nov. 8, 1890, 1 arrived at H. L. Hastings 
13 George St., Chelsea, Mass., where I was warmly 
and cordially received, by the family and household, 
and was invited by the Woman's Christian Temper- 
ance Union, Sister Snow being President, to take 
charge of their meetings, which I did. The little 
Mission Building, was in readiness for me ; we held 
from nine to ten meetings a week in this Hall, for upwards of five 
months ; nearly every day of the week during these months the 
people came from all quarters, to the Library Room, to be healed 
and saved. Some days I would lay hands on about one hundred 
persons, and anoint and pray over them, many being instan- 
taneously healed. The ears of some ten or fifteen mutes were 
opened, so that they could hear sounds distinctly, but the articular 
tion was not perfectly developed, as the cases were not completed \ 
they failing to follow it up. 




A MODERN miracle. 

One deaf lady came for healing, who was born earless on th^ 
right side, there being no opening. I anointed her ear in the name 
of the Lord, and put oil on the side where there was no ear, and 
prayed for her, when she could hear distinctly on the side where 
there was no ear. She testified, two or three times, of her heal- 
ing in the meetings. I tested the ear, by closing up the left ear, 
and she could hear every thing I said, distinctly, and yet I could 
see no opening whatever. This occurred before a full audience, in 
the Hall. I believe there were from one hundred and fifty, to two 



206 LITE SKETCHES OF 

hundred deaf ears opened, so that man}- of them could hear the 
ticking of a watch. Some of whom had been deaf, ten, twenty, 
thirty, and forty years. To God be all the glory ! Isa. xxxv : 3, 
4, 5, 6. " Strengthen ye the weak hands, and confirm the feeble 
knees. Say to them, that are of a fearful heart, be strong, fear 
not : behold your God will come with vengeance. Even God, with 
a recompense ; he will come, and save you. Then the eyes of the 
blind shall be opened, and the ears of the deaf, shall be unstopped. 
Then shall the lame man leap as a hart, and the tongue of the dumb 
sing." Hallelujah to the Lamb! Quite a number of blind peo- 
ple received their sight ; but the healing of that class of people 
has not been quite as marked as the deaf. Quite a number of 
cancer cases have been healed, although the victory has not been 
quite as clear, as in some other cities. We have had some marvel- 
ous cases of asthma consumption, and the healing was very 
quick, and satisfactory so far as I have learned. Rheumatic cases 
have been numerous, and many persons are rejoicing to-da}' over 
a glorious victory. Blood poison, and impure blood, and these 
count up into the thousands, are healed on the promise given in 
Joel iii : 21. " For I will cleanse their blood, that I have not 
cleansed : for the Lord dwelleth in Zion." Heart disease has been 
regulated in a few moments, under the power of God. Epileptic 
fits are cured by the casting out of devils ; the devils are located 
usually just below the liver and stomach, and run up to the head 
and throw some of the machiner}' out of order, and over the per- 
son goes into convulsions. 

Female troubles have been healed by the hundreds ; all have 
received the healing, by faith through Jesus Christ, and are 
now up and active around their own houses, and I believe that all, 
who have been healed, have been drawn nearer to Christ, made 
more joyful and happy ; but the great trouble with most is, they 
are unwilling to testify before the public, and lose many of the 
blessings that otherwise would follow. I have baptized upwards 
of sixty, up to July 19th, 1891. I believe that in Chelsea, and 
the surrounding cities, not less than between three and four hun- 
dred have been saved, and some miraculously saved. The Lord 
has drawn people from the Rocky Mountains, California, Colorado, 
Mexico, Kansas, Illinois, Michigan, Pennsylvania, New York, 
Maryland, New Jersey, Vermont, and all of the New England 
States ; and some from the Southern States, Canada or the Prov- 



ELDER W. G. RAYMOND. 207 

ince of Nova Scotia, Jamaica, and quite a number from the Old 
"World. Over these we have prayed, either for healing, or salvation, 
or both, and I have immersed two from Wales, also one from 
Africa. 



MY BIRTHDAY. 

July 4th, 1891, was my seventy-second birthday. I worked at 
my book, in the forenoon, and was invited over to Brother Clows, 
East Boston, in the afternoon. On arriving, I found quite a num- 
ber of the faith-people there, after singing and prayers, we were 
treated to ice cream, and other luxuries. Brother Clows came into 
the parlor with his smiling face and said, " Brother Raymond isn't 
this your birthday?" I responded ''yes." He said, '' in behalf of 
the workers I present you an offering of thirty-seven dollars 
toward the publication of your book. Instead of making a 
speech, — believing it came from the Lord, in answer to prayer, I 
fell down on my knees to thank God for the offering, and ask the 
blessing of the Lord upon the dear saints, who had responded to 
his call. 

It was followed by devotional services until supper, after which 
Brother Nathaniel Hines expressed a desire to be baptized ; it 
being my birthday, I encouraged it, and about sundown I 
immersed him in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost in 
Mystic River, East Boston. After pouring oil on his head, and 
the laying on of hands, he was set apart as an Elder, in the Church 
of God, and with authority to preach the full gospel, and to heal 
the sick, b}' faith, in the name of Jesus Christ. 

I believe that Sister Hastings, in opening her house, and enter- 
taining the vast company in their large Library Room for months, did 
much to advance the work of faith-healing, and salvation. I enjoy- 
ed her hospitality, smiles, kind words, and most of all, her prayers, 
for months. Sister Snow was intimately associated with her, for five 
months, or during the work in her house, and God only knows the 
valuable service she rendered to the sick and aflSicted. I look 
upon her as a very intelligent and estimable christian lady. Sister 
Curtis labored in this work very intimately, and efficiently for 
eight months, until she went to her summer rest, and the Lord 
only knows how many souls she led to Christ in our Mission, and 
also at the Soldiers' Home on the hill ; she was wonderfully healed 



208 LIFE SKETCHES OF 

of the Lord, and I look upon her as an intelligent, zealous christ- 
ian, capable of preaching the gospel in any city, and not one 
unpleasant word was uttered during all this time to my 
knowledge. To God be all the glory. 

Sister Munder, and Sister Clark, labored some portion of this 
time acceptably with the people. God, certainly, will reward 
them for what they have done for the Master. Others rendered 
vahiable service. Sister E. L. Bidwell, of Manchester, Conn., 
put in about two weeks of very valuable service for the Lord Jesus. 
I wish to express my heartfelt gratitude to Sister Newcomb for her 
untiring efforts to aid me in getting my book before the public, 
and using her pen and intelligence in correcting my manuscripts, 
and to Brother Newcomb for consenting to the same. And I can- 
not, with words, express my appreciation of H. L. Hastings for 
his christian patience and forbearance with me, and the afflicted 
people. I was in the Library Room, during the time of casting out 
devils, right under his study. His wife would ask, " Does Elder 
Raymond's prayers disturb you?" when he would reply, " Some- 
times they divert my attention, but let him pray ; had I plenty of 
money I would hire some one to pray all the time in my house, for 
the good work to prosper." People coming from miles around to 
be prayed for, sometimes as many as fifty or sixty — numbers 
would frequently have to tarry, until two and three o'clock in the 
afternoon, and even at times to the lighting of the evening lamp ; 
while the coming, several times commenced, as early as five and 
six in the morning. I was so absorbed in my work during some 
of these pressures, that I did not partake of breakfast until four 
p. M., and Brother Hastings would say to his wife, *' Hattie, you 
must make soup for the people, or they will faint before reaching 
home," and our Sister was more than ready to fulfil his sugges- 
tions. I look upon him as a great man intellectually, morally, and 
religiously. When presiding in his family, he reminds me of 
Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. One is impressed of this truth, in 
his family devotions ! All sing their religion, as well as pray it. 
Any one wishing helps against infidelity, or desiring bibles, would 
do well to send to his Scriptural Tract Repository, 47 Cornhill, 
Boston. Bro. Hastings has the largest private library I ever saw. 
I remained in the family of Brother Hastings until the confinement 
of a lady required my room, when I was given a very pleasant, 
commodious one, in the quiet home of Mrs. Kimball, widow of the 



ELDER W. G. RAYMOND. 209 

late Professor Kimball, and who, up to tlie time of his death, was 
superintendent of the public schools in Chelsea. Her many kind, 
encouraging words, and generosities extended, will not be forgot- 
ten. Her daughter is the wife of the Rev. Mr. Osgood, a highly 
educated and zealous minister in the Methodist denomination, 
and in whose welfare I am specially interested. I could also 
speak of many privileges, and favors, received from the family of 
Brother and Sister Huntley ; the testimony of the healing of Brother 

H , who was raised right out of the jaws of death, will be 

found in my book. The Lord bless the entire family. I highly 
esteem the family of brother Porter ; in his house we had some 
precious meetings, when his commodious parlor would be packed 
to its utmost capacity, compelling many to remain in the hall. 
His lovely little daughter was healed, under my hands, of scarlet 
fever in its worst phases, the account of which will be found else- 
where in my book. For months he was quite an active worker, 
and took me two or three times to Worcester and other places to 
visit the sick, bearing all expenses ; some think him too generous. 
I think him a little too much trameledwith the world, to make pro- 
gress in the higher life. I feel constrained , from a flow of gratitude, 
to speak of Elder Clows and his family. In the commencement of 
of my meetings I spoke to Elder Davis to find a place for the accom- 
modation of those who wished immersion, when he saw Mrs. Clows, 
of East Boston, and just across the bridge from Chelsea, who 
gave her permission, but said, " I don't know how my husband 
will take to it, as he* is an infidel " ; he had been such, for forty 
years — was a man of the world, but having been afllicted with 
rheumatism for more than a year, to the extent, that his wife was, 
obliged to assist him in dressing and undressing. One day he 
said to her, "I believe I will go over and see that Doctor in Chelsea, 
for they say he cures everything." He did come, and was healed 
in five minutes, by faith, in the name of Jesus Christ, and remains 
healed, having also gained in flesh twenty-five pounds. Sixty or 
seventy, that have been immersed, have been accommodated at his 
house, himself, wife, brother and son were of the number. 

Soon after his conversion, he started a mission in his house, and 
is now building a room underneath for Faith Mission purposes. 
Brother Davis referred to, is the Rev. Davis arrested and impris- 
oned for one year, for preaching Christ's gospel on Boston Com- 
mon. At his home, we held several meetings of considerable 
U 



210 LIFE SKETCHES OF 

interest. I look upon him as a man of rare intellectual attain- 
ments, and if he don't succeed in his labors — in my judgment, it 
is, that he does not concentrate. His wife has rare literary attain- 
ments, and very kindl}' offered to assist me in preparing my manu- 
scripts for the press. She worked acceptably, with the other sis- 
ters, until the extremely cold weather of winter ; she visited with 
me in Boston one of the finest families I have met there, that of 
Mr. Cook (fur dealer) . • • My teeth bothered me much in public 
speaking, and I praj^ed to the Lord that he would change my gums 
to suit my teeth, or give me a new set of teeth. Dr. Carlton, a 
noted dentist of Broadwaj^, came to hear me several times, and 
observing my embarrassment, sent me word, through Mr. Sanford, 
a converted policeman, that he wished to present me with a set of 
teeth, which he did, and they fit me the best of any that I have 
worn for twenty-five years. Though an unconverted man, he has 
made a noble offering to one of God's servants, and I believe they 
were cheerfully given. (I lost my teeth early through salivation 
from calomel.) My prayer is, that God would bless him and his 
dear family, and bring them all into his kingdom. After being 
under fire of the enemy for several weeks, he gave me great en- 
couragement a few days since, when he said " Elder Raymond, I 
believe you are doing more good in this city than all the churches 
in Chelsea." This brother Sanford accompanied me once to New- 
Hampshire, twenty miles be3^ond Concord, to visit a sick lady, and 
has been an active advocate of the faith work ever since, himself- 
and family, have each been quickly healed of serious maladies, 
and his wife and little daughter have been immersed in the Mystic 
River, East Boston. Elder Frazer is one of the financial com- 
mittee, he and wife have been immersed, and contributed liberally 
to the Mission. 

Elder Hyde, has been passing through severe trials in the death 
of his wife, — and the breaking up of his happy family ; he is a very 
active, zealous brother. The testimony of his wife will be found 
in my book. Elder Smith was wonderfully healed, his voice 
restored, his countenance changed, and his entire life, fully sur- 
rendered to the Lord ; he will make a staunch worker for the Lord. 
Sister Steel, who delighted the audiences for months with her 
voice, and as pianist, was miraculously healed of epileptic devils, 
as her testimony will show. She is the daughter of Brother 
Clark, who took a very active part for five months in the mission, 



ELDER W. G. RAYMOND. 211 

thanking God for sending Elder Raymond to Chelsea, and for the 
blessings he had received in his own soul, and for bringing his 
family into salvation, and health. I think he made a mistake in 
withdrawing from the Mission, because he could not acquiesce in 
the manner in which I called my official workers. I have great 
regard for Brother Gibbons and his family ; he is a Deacon in the 
First Congregational Church. I immersed him and wife in the 
Mystic River, and ordained him for the gospel work. Brother Green 
has come out more recently, but is a very zealous worker, and his 
little daughter presides at the piano in our Mission. May God 
bless Brother and Sister Newcomb for supplying the mission with 
their fine-toned piano. Brother Sprague, Brother Staples and 
Brother Brewer, also Brother Reslals, have added to the advance- 
ment of the Mission, and scores of others, of whom I have not 
time to make mention. 

ADVANCED POSITION. 

I take the position in my book, that the gospel of Jesus Christy 
through the power of the Holy Ghost, can reproduce itself, in every 
particular that is necessary, to advance the Church of God. If 
we have an accurate negative, in the hands of a perfect artist, we 
have a more perfectly developed picture, every time, than the neg- 
ative. As proof of this see John xiv : 12. "Verily, veril}', 
I say unto you, he that believeth on me, the works that I do, shall 
he do also ; and greater works than these, shall he do ; because I 
go unto my Father.*' 

I wish to call your attention to Christ's baptism. Look at the 
negative. Matt, iii, l3-7 : "Then cometh Jesus from Galilee 
to Jordan, unto John, to be baptized of him, but John forbade him, 
saying I have need to be baptized of thee, and comest thou to 
me? And Jesus answering, said unto him, suffer it to be so now : 
for thus it becometh us to fulfil all righteousness. Then he suf- 
fered him. And Jesus, when he was baptized, went up straightway 
out of the water ; and, lo, the heavens were opened unto him, and 
he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and lighting upon 
him : And lo, a voice from heaven, sa3ing, this is my beloved 
son, in whom I am well pleased." Christ was filled to overflow- 
ing with the Holy Ghost immediately after coming out of the 
water. This represented his death, burial, and resurrection. 
Can this be reproduced? As proof, read Acts ii : 38 ; "Then 



212 LIFE SKETCHES OF 

Peter said unto them, repent, and be baptized every one of j^ou, 
in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and 3'e shall 
receive the gift of the Holy Ghost." Read Acts xix, 5-6. 
*'When they heard this, they were baptized in the name of the 
Lord Jesus. And when Paul had laid his hands upon them, the 
Holy Ghost came on them and they spake with tongues and 
prophesied. And all the men were about twelve. Acts v : 30- 
32 : "The God of our fathers, raised up Jesus, whom ye slew, 
and hanged on a tree. Him hath God exalted with his right 
hand to be a Prince and a Saviour, for to give repentance to 
Israel and forgiveness of sins. And we are his witnesses of these 
things ; and so is also, the Holy Ghost, whom God hath given to 
them that obey him." 

I believe that the same power can be reproduced on them that 
are immersed in the name of the Father, Son and Holy Ghost, 
other things being equal. I wish to call your attention to the 
manner in which the Saviour called his disciples. Look at the 
negative, Matt, iv : 18-22: " And Jesus, walking by the sea of 
Galilee, saw two brethren, Simon called Peter, and Andrew, his 
brother, casting a net into the sea. For they were fishers. 
And he saith unto them. Follow me and I will make 5^ou fishers of 
men. And they straightway left their nets and followed him. 
And going on from thence, he saw other two brethren, James the 
son of Zebedee, and John his brother, in a ship, with Zebedee, 
their father, mending their nets, and he called them. And they 
immediately left the ship and their father and followed him." 

In a similar manner he called the twelve. Notice their occupa- 
tion and their willingness to obey : they left all, and followed him. 
They were considered illiterate men. Jesus himself was a car- 
penter. All the theological training that Jesus had, was in the 
Temple at Jerusalem, for a few hours, with the Doctors of Divin- 
ity. Look at the negative. There certainly was a mistake then, 
or there is a mistake being made now. Perhaps my readers can 
determine that, without my enlarging upon it. What we need now 
is men given, up to the work, being filled with the Holy Ghost, and 
having the unction in them. Look at the negative in Faith-Heal- 
ing — working miracles, raising the dead, casting out devils, etc. 
The negatives are too numerous for me to reproduce them in mj^ 
book. Examine each, and see if a flaw can be found in any one of 
them ; if not, we are compelled to believe that they can reproduce 
themselves, if the operator be imbued with Power from on High. 



ELDER W. G. RAY^IOND. 213 

Look at the negative, of the resurrection of Jesus Christ from 
the grave. This truth lies at the foundation of every Christian's 
hope. As proof, look at 1st Cor., xv : 12-20. "Now if Christ 
he preached that he rose from the dead, how say some among you 
that there is no resurrection of the dead. But if there be no res- 
urrection of the dead, then is Christ not risen ? And if Christ be 
not risen, then is our preaching vain, and your faith is also vain. 
Yea, and we are found false witnesses of God, because we have 
testified of God, that he raised up Christ ; whom he raised not up, 
if so be that the dead rise not. For if the dead rise not, then 
is not Christ raised. And if Christ be not raised your faith 
is vain ; ye are yet in your sins. Then they also which have fallen 
asleep in Christ are perished. If in this life only we have hope 
in Christ, we are of all men most miserable. But now, is Christ 
risen from the dead, and become the first fruits of them that 
slept." I believe that Christ is now the resurrection. See John 
xi : 23-27 : "Jesus saith unto her, th}' brother shall rise again." 
Martha saith unto him, "I know that he shall rise again in the 
resurrection at the last day." Jesus said unto her, I am the resur- 
rection, and the life; he that believeth in me, though he were 
dead, yet shall he live. And whosoever liveth and believeth in 
me, shall never die." Believest thou this ? She saith unto him^ 
yea. Lord ; I believe that thou art the Christ, the son of God, 
which should come into the world. Acts ix, 40-43 : "But 
Peter put them all forth and kneeled down and prayed ; and 
turning him to the body said, "Tabitha arise." And she opened 
her eyes, and when she saw Peter, she sat up and he gave her his 
hand, and lifted her up, and when he had called the saints and 
widows he presented her alive." 



July, 1891. 
A short summary review of my eight years' labor, which com- 
menced in Washington, D. C. I shall never know in this life, the 
result of them, while there, as to have kept a journal with my 
limited means, would have been simply impossible, while hundreds 
were coming — some perhaps, thousands of miles away; but I 
know of many, who are still living epistles that were healed, and 
saved under my hands. Two years of that time, I was associate 
pastor with Dr. Lodge, a Baptist minister, and whom I loved, and 



214 LIFE SKETCHES OF 

considered the best sermouizer in the City. In Baltimore, a city 
of five or six hundred thousand inhabitants, and many hundred 
churches, I onl^^ had the privilege out of this number, of preaching 
the full gospel in eight or nine of them, which, with the exception 
of one or two, were Methodists, and some of them I occupied from 
one to two months, to overflowing houses. I also established two 
Faith Homes, one on North Strieker street, and one on M3Ttle 
Avenue, which were large three and four story brick buildings, 
called Beulah Land Faith Home. Many of the afflicted from 
north, east, south, and west, will not cease to thank God, for the 
blessings they there received. Over one hundred were immersed, 
and many as they came up out of the water, were gloriously healed. 
One branch of this work extended along down the eastern shore, to 
Deal's Island, and Dame's Quarters, where I had a glorious revival 
in the Methodist Church ; here, I baptized Brother George 
McDorman, with three or four more ; also ordained Brother 
McDorman. At Sharpstown, Md., I held a meeting in a large 
Methodist house ; here, also were overflowing audiences, and where 
eister Owens, was miraculously raised from the last stages of con- 
sumption. I held a glorious meeting across the river, in the 
Wakefield Methodist Church. I also held meetings, in two other 
Methodist Churches, not far from Laurel, Del., quite a number 
were instantaneously healed, and saved. In Laurel, I held a 
meeting of ten or fifteen days, in a large Methodist Church which 
was crowded and packed to its utmost capacity, and where the 
full gospel was preached, and it will be known in the last day, 
the glorious results of that meeting. In Vienna, another point on 
the eastern shore, where I held a ten days' meeting in a large Hall, 
thirty-nine were gloriously saved. The churches, were withheld 
from me, with the exception of the Baptist Church. At Crochor's 
Ferry, I had a church and grove meeting, and many were saved. 
I will speak of the healing of Mr. Bramble a wealthy farmer, who 
had the shaking palsy, and many skeptical people came miles to 
know the truth of it. I immersed in the river sixty-seven, as the 
result of that meeting. In Newmarket I held meetings in the 
large Methodist Church, and the minister, sat under my teachings ; 
this meeting was injured from irreligious people controlling it. I 
received many favors, from the Johnson line of steamers. Mr. 
Johnson is a brother of the Johnson family in Washington, 
who have shown me many courtesies and hospitalities. I also 



ELDER W. G. RAYMOND. 215 

received like favors and passes on the Maryland line of steamers, 
through Mr. Ensign, the President. In Elmira, N. Y., I put in two 
weeks' labor, holding my services in parlors, and baptized three, in 
the Chamung river. I also held meetings at Cole's Creek, Farmers' 
Valley, McKeen Co., Penn. I held meetings in one of the churches 
and baptized three in Cole's Creek. At Anning's Creek I occupied 
the Baptist Church, the minister and family being present. At 
Mount Jewett 2,200 feet above the level of the sea, and near the 
famous Kinso Bridge, I held meetings in a Swedish Church, and 
baptized upwards of thirty. Brother Smith, was also set apart for 
the gospel ministrj'. My son, Elder E. L. Raymond, who has 
been miraculously healed of several physical troubles, is Pastor of 
the Church of God there. His wife, Rean, was also healed of 
asthma consumption, while in its last stages. In Warren, Warren 
Co., Pa., I held a meeting in Brother Cole's house. My son Edwin 
was with me ; we had a short meeting of considerable interest. I 
baptized ten, in the Alleghany River, in which river I had pre- 
viously assisted in baptizing two hundred Indians, as the result 
of special meetings. In Jamestown, Chautauqua Co., N. Y., I 
preached the gospel for several weeks to that city' which contains 
upwards of thirty thousand people, quite a percentage being 
Swedes. Here I baptized upwards of thirty. Some very re- 
markable cases of casting out devils, occurred during these meet- 
ings. My son was with me, and we held meetings in several Halls, 
and in the Congregationalist Church. I held a few meetings in the 
Congregationalist Church in Frewsburg. Time and eternity will re- 
veal the results of these labors. In Gloversville, N. Y. , I labored a 
few days in private families. Sister Vanhorn who was fatally 
diseased, was raised up, and is still (so far as I know,) in com- 
fortable health. In Northville, N. Y., I held meetings in a large 
Hall for two weeks or more. The ears of three mutes were opened 
so that they could hear sounds, although they could not compre- 
hend language, until I anointed their tongues, when they could 
repeat after me, the Lord's Prayer and many other words. I wish 
to express my gratitude to Sister Lewis and daughter for the 
kindness and hospitalities I received during the meetings. I held 
several meetings in Lansingburgh, Troy, Waterford and Cohoes, 
also in Albany, N. Y., and preached in some of the churches; 
in Troy, we occupied the City Hall, but our principal place of hold- 
ing meetings was sister Musgrove's Faith Rooms, 42 Fifth Avenue 



216 LIFE SKETCHES OP 

Lansingburgh, N. Y., I baptized thirt3^-three in the Hudson River. 
Some of the cases of healing, will be found recorded on another 
page, also extracts, from letters written by Estell Lucie, a young 
Catholic girl, who was raised, and gloriously saved, then baptized. 
Sister Musgrove, is doing a grand work in these cities, so far as 
she is able to reach them. Mrs. Mary Goldsmith, my daughter, 
may be reached through this Home. She was miraculously healed, 
about four jears ago, at my Faith Home in Baltimore, of very 
weak eyes, cancer, heart, stomach, liver and kidney troubles, 
having the malaria through her entire system, which the doctors 
decided must prove fatal. She is now a well woman, and right in 
the line of my work ; her vision, is perfectly clear, being able to 
read the finest print, in a dim light. Her mission is from New 
York to Buffalo, her husband Captain Ira Goldsmith, running 
several boats between these two points. She may be corresponded 
with, from Buffalo, N. Y., in care Canal Collector, boat Jehovah, 
Raphi, or Beulah Land. 

From Troy, I made two trips to Vermont to see a lady dying of 
cancer, and stopped with a wealthy farmer named Wescott, in 
Fair Haven ; through the daughter, I was introduced to Elder Wal- 
ker, a Baptist minister, who was a professional Bible-reader, and 
Pastor of the Baptist church. He quite reluctantly gave me 
permission to preach in it that night, which I did, then leaving the 
desk I gave a sketch of my physical healing which created a good 
deal of uneasiness, with the Pastor and church people, and I have 
since learned, through friends in New York City, that he regretted 
letting me into his desk. Perhaps it would have been better for me, 
had I never met him, but I have asked God to forgive his unchris- 
tian criticisms on my work. I wish to express my heartfelt thanks 
to the dear family (Mr. Wescott's) with whom I stopped, for their 
many courtesies and kindnesses extended to me. One of the priv- 
ileges extended, was the offer of his beautiful camp-grounds on 
which to hold a faith-cure meeting, with the assurance of his 
being at my right hand. I regard him as the most intelligent 
farmer I ever met, which his large farm of four or five hundred 
acres, fine dairy, rare stock, choice Italian bees, etc., demonstrated 
for themselves, and his several carriages conveying his own family 
and household, to and from my night service, served to betoken his 
very kind and generous nature ; and my prayer to God for them 
has since ever been, that he would save the entire family. 



ELDER W. G. RAYMOND. 217 

In Brooklyn, N. Y., I held parlor meetings. Dr. Sheperd, a 
practicing physician, through his wife, opened his large and com- 
modious parlors for Faith meetings for several weeks ; some were 
healed, quite a number religiously blessed, and a few saved. 
Thanks be to God, for the favors shown by this dear family. We 
attended every week Dr. Simpson's Faith meetings ; he then had 
power with God and man, and many were healed under his hands ; 
but since then, I think he has gone back, from the simplicity of 
faith, by once more seeking alliance with the churches, and I da 
not believe, while so retrograding, he will ever again redeem it. 
It is like going back to Egypt. We are too near the coming of 
Christ to retrograde. I think no man can prosper spiritually, who 
privately slanders, or misrepresents, one of God's chosen servants. 
I wrote a long letter to Dr. Simpson, which was written with many 
tears, and considerable expense, hoping to harmonize our religious 
views, 3'et my brother never showed the courtesy to even reply to, 
or answer it ; but I believe that I have from my heart forgiven 
him. Our correspondence will be found in another part of this 
book. * * Before leaving Brooklyn, I held services in a few 
Churches and Halls, beside the parlor meetings mentioned. But 
the principal part of my work was at Erie Basin, among the boat- 
men, who wintered there. 

I do not forget a Brother Smith, one very active among the Holi- 
ness people, and who rendered me valuable services. He was a 
member of the Schofield Baptist Church, occasionally holding 
holiness meetings in it, a few of which, I attended. I would also 
mention two Sister Williams, and a Sister Martin, who were intel- 
tectual, efficient workers. 

In Jersey City I saw the power of God wonderfully displayed, in 
the healing of the body, and in the salvation of souls, and as the 
fruit of my labors there, in Bayonne, Hoboken, and New York 
Cities, I immersed one hundred and thirty-five. My book will 
tell some of the fruits of my labors while there. 

Between three and four years ago, I labored in Springfield, and 
other cities in Massachusetts, stopping at the Faith Home in . 
charge of Sisters Orpha, and Rosa Ressen, in Springfield. Par- 
ticulars of which will be found on another page. 



Chapter XIV. 



A Few Extracts from Letters, from Correspondents in Dif- 
ferent Parts of the United States, showing something 
of the Magnitude of my Work, although time 

AND space will NOT PERMIT ME TO NO- 
TICE ONE IN A HUNDRED. 



Lynn, Mass., June 22, 1891. 
37 Lillian Ave. 

Elder Raymond : — I would like to add my testimony to others, 
of the power of God to heal the body in answer to prayer. 

I was a great sufferer with my head for eleven years, which 
caused me to lose sight of one eye, and injure the other. For 
over a year I could not see to read or write. I consulted two of 
the best doctors in Boston and they treated me, but I grew no 
better. 

During the winter I was led to attend your meetings, and you 
prayed with me, anointing my eyes with oil. In a short time my 
eye sight returned to me, and I could read and sew by daylight, 
or in the evening with an artificial light, as well as ever. * 

Now it has been some six months, and they remain well. All 
glory to God who has given you power to heal as the disciples of 
old had, when Christ was upon the earth. Bless His dear name. 
He is the same yesterday, to-day, and forever. 

In Christ, Mrs. A. L. Moshere. 



Brighton, Mass., July 15, 1891. 

Dear Sir : — I feel moved of the Lord to give you my testimony 

of healing. I had a painful tumor on my arm, and at times it 

troubled me ver}^ much. I heard of Elder Raymond, and the 

wonderful cures that had been wrought in the name of Jesus. I 



ELDER W. G. RAYMOND. 219 

went to Chelsea, to see and hear him, and after seeing the won- 
derful cures he wrought through the power of the Holy Ghost, I 
was convinced that he was a man of God, sent out to do His work. 
A short time after, I went again. I consented to be anointed, and 
prayed for. After the anointing and prayer, I was cured at once. 
I also had other troubles of a serious nature, and they were 
removed through the same channel as the tumor. I would advise 
the afflicted ones to go to Elder Raymond, rather than to go to 
physicians, for he seeks the salvation of the soul as well as the 
healing of the body, and I know I have been brought closer to 
Christ since coming under his hands. 

Any one wishing to write or talk with me will find my address, 
Mrs. Walter M. Peach, 

Corner Washington St. and Harvard Place. 



17 Tremont St., Boston, July, 1891. 

I would like to testify to what the Lord has done for me through 
Elder Raymond's prayers. I was sick four years with bronchitis, 
and asthma. Had a terrible cough and sometimes raised blood. 
Confined to the bed weeks at a time. When at my ver}' best was 
not able to do much work. 

I tried all kinds of treatments, and one doctor gave me up to 
die. Elder Ra^^mond came and prayed with me when I was sick 
in bed. I gave up my medicine, and began to improve, and now am 
pretty well. I can do quite an amount of work, but am not very 
strong. I have had my appetite restored to me, so expect to grow 
stronger every day. 

All glory to God, for answered prayer. 

Mrs. Abbie Cohoon. 



Manchester, Conn., June 24, 1891. 
I feel like praising God all the time for what he has done for 
me. He has brought me out of darkness into His marvelous light. 
Through the prayers and healing power of Elder Raymond I have 
been healed soul, and body. Praise His holy name. I went to 
Chelsea some two months ago depending upon doctors for help, 
and was expecting to have an operation performed, but the Lord 
directed me to the meetings held in Hawthorne Hall, and in two 



220 ' LIFE SKETCHES OF 

weeks I had the assurance I was healed. I have been afflicted 

since I was eleven years old, with what was called a light form of 

epilepsy. Have had the most skilful physicians, "but nothing 

bettered." Sometimes have had eleven attacks in adsLj. For the 

last three years have not had as many, only they occurred every 

week. Before I went to Chelsea, I had them most of the time. 

Now I do not take medicine because Christ is my healer for all 

ailments. "He forgiveth all our iniquities, and healeth all our 

diseases." He says "according to thy faith so be it done unto 

thee." With my healing He gave me a special baptism of the 

Spirit and I have come into a life of rest. For the last two mouths 

I have had a blessed experience. Praise the Lord ! I was 

sprinkled some six years ago, and united with the Congregation- 

alist church. After becoming so conformed to His will I felt I 

must be immersed. I was suffering with a severe cold, and my 

friends opposed me, saying " wait until warmer weather," but I 

said "the Lord's will be done." He soon opened the way and I 

was immersed in the river in East Boston by Elder Raymond, May 

7, 1891. I received a wonderful blessing, and my cold was much 

better from that time. The next morning the first passage my 

eye lighted on was, " There is one God, one faith, and one 

baptism," and it satisfied me. It is my prayer that this testimony 

may be blest to every sick body, and disatisfied heart, who reads 

it, and they may be led to say " Where Thou dost lead I will 

follow" — God has all the glory. 

Mrs. E. L. Bid well. 



East Boston, April 21, 1891. 
Elder Raymond, 

Dear Sir : — I am only too glad to tell what the dear Lord has 
done for me in restoring my health and saving my soul. I had 
for more than a year been crippled with rheumatism, which made 
it impossible for me to dress myself without help. The only way I 
could get out of bed a good part of the time was on my hands and 
knees. I also had a heart trouble, so badly that my wife could sit 
and see the motion of my clothes as it would palpitate. I did not 
believe in a God. Had no regard for the Sabbath, never attend- 
ing church. Spent a great part of Sabbath evenings playing 
games with an infidel friend. I doubted there was any being who 
had much ability to do anything. I could get no help from the 



ELDER W. G. RAYMOND. 221 

doctors, and some one asked me to go to Elder Ra3"mond's mission. 
I went without any belief in it, but when I saw others go and sit 
down in the chairs to be prayed for, I went. Did not have a 
particle of faith. You prayed for me, anointing with oil. When 
I arose from the chair I was surprised to find my lameness gone. 
You invited me to call on you at Rev. Mr. Hastings'. In a few 
days I went to the house and you prayed for the heart trouble, 
and that was healed, and I began to see there was a higher power 
than man. I soon began to see what a sinner I had been, and my 
lost condition without Christ, who had so wonderfull}^ healed my 
body, in answer to the prayer of faith. I commenced to seek sal- 
vation, but had to have many battles with Satan before I got the 
victory. God being the stronger, He rebuked Satan, and forgave 
my sins, and peace and jo}' came into my heart, and there was a 
greater miracle performed in my soul than in my body — and bless 
His dear name He has all the glory. I do praise the Lord that 
after forty-five years of worldliness, tobacco using, and love of 
strong drink, and card playing, I have been wonderfully deliv- 
ered, and have no joy so great as preaching Christ unto others who 
are under the same curse. My son has also been cured from a 
bad sore throat by the pra3'er of faith j^ou offered for him. 

I want to say right here in praise to His dear name, that I have 
opened a mission in my house, 49 Condor Street, East Boston, 
where many souls have found Jesus, some calling themselves 
infidels, and believe many more will come into the light. Some 
have been healed there. I was baptized by you, and my house has 
ever been open to accommodate all who wished to be baptized, as 
it is close by the river. I do praise the dear Lord that he is true 
to His promises, which are *'3"ea and amen." I also thank God 
that He ever sent you here, for I might still be a crippled unsaved 
man, to say nothing of the blessings my family have received 
spirituallj^ and physically. Yours in Christ, 

B. Franklin Clows. 

Since writing the above I have been thrown across a stove and 
badly injured, also thrown from a carriage, and had my face and 
hand badly cut. Laid insensible for awhile, was sick in bed for 
awhile, but had no physican. Friends who were alarmed plead in 
vain for a doctor. I knew what God had done once He was able 
to do again through your prayers. I fulfilled the conditions in 
having hands laid upon me, and being anointed with oil and the 



222 LIFE SKETCHES OF 

prayer of faith offered by you, bless His dear name, I am a well 
man, through Christ Jesus. May God use you for the salvation 
of many others, soul and body, is my prayer. b. f. c. 



With a heart full of thanksgiving for what God has done for me 
through Brother Raymond, I will add my testimony to others. I 
was troubled with water on the knee joint four years. Had two 
operations performed at the City Hospital, where I remained two 
weeks. Suffered so intensely at one time did not sleep for three 
nights. Was sick on my back at home for six months. 
Could not walk. Some one told me about Elder Raymond 
and his faith healing, and I was led to have him pray with 
me, anointing me with oil. My knee began to improve and now 
is nearly well. I long had felt the need of being a christian, but 
did not want to give up my bad habits, but my gratitude to God was 
so great for the healing that I have surrendered all to Christ, and 
have no desire for the wicked things of the past. Praise the 
Lord for a healed body and saved soul. 

John A. Hill, Jr., Boston. 



27 Meridian Street, Melrose. 

I have suffered for years with a complication of diseases. Have 
been treated by a number of physicians, who all failed to effect 
any cure. They would relieve me for a short time, then I would 
be worse than ever. 

I had begun to feel very much discouraged when I heard of 
Elder Raymond. I made a great effort to go to Chelsea to have 
him pray with me. I went on a Monday the first time, and for a 
number of days did not feel any better, and was determined not 
to give it up without another trial, so went again the next Monday. 
That day I came home feeling a little better, that continued a 
couple of days, then was quite sick again until Friday mornings 
vrhen I was entirely discouraged. 

About ten o'clock a voice said to me, *' You are healed, get up 
and go to work," which was repeated three times. I did as I was 
bidden, dressed myself, ate my breakfast, and went to house 
cleaning, washing paint, etc. I have continued doing all my 
work since, which is five weeks ago last Friday. I had not been 



ELDER W. G. RAYMOND. 223 

able to do anything, not as much as sweep the kitched floor for 
eighteen months. I think it is wonderful, and m}'' heart is one 
song of praise to God that He answered Elder Raymond's prayers 
in the healing of my body. All glory to God. 

Mrs. Catherine Vickery. 



Mr. Raymond, 

Dear Sir : — I have been troubled with a bad cough and for over 
a 3^ear with pains in my chest. A little exertion would cause me to 
cough violently, but God, through you, has healed me from that 
terrible cough. To His name be the praise. 

Mrs. E. M. Young, 
92 Broadway, Somerville, Mass. 



For a number of years have had trouble with my eyes caused 
by scrofula. A year ago last fall they were so bad it tired them 
to look at anything. There was a thick red spot on the white of 
one eye. I was treated for them four months, and they were bet- 
ter. Last December the trouble returned, and I was about to go 
to the doctor again when I was led to attend Elder Raymond's 
meetings in Chelsea. I had no faith in being healed by prayer, 
and was not even willing to be prayed with. After seeing and 
hearing what God had, and was doing for others, I was led to the 
place where I was willing to be healed hy the Great Physician. I 
praise the Lord, for I have received a great blessing. Two weeks 
after I was prayed with, the tired feeling from which I had suf- 
fered so long left me. In a short time the redness in my ej'e all 
disappeared. The other eye I had not been able to see out of for 
over nine years. I can see now, and it is slowly getting like the 
other. Four and a half years I was doctored for my ears, and 
catarrh. It seemed almost impossible to clear my head mornings^ 
it was in such a condition. The next morning after I was prayed 
with, it was worse than ever. The discharge that fell into my 
throat mornings was so much, and so offensive, that sometimes I 
would vomit up my food while eating. That is gone. Not once 
since, being troubled while eating. One ear I had not heard out of 
for three years. The hearing is slowly returning. If I went out 
in the wind, or held my head down a little while, could not hear 
at all. The past winter have been out all kinds of weather, and 



224 LIFE SKETCHES OF 

have not fiad that stuffed feeling but once, then only slightly. 
Never went through a winter so free from colds, or felt so well at 
last. Praise the Lord, I believe I shall soon see the work per- 
fected, all in answer to the prayer of faith. 
Yours in Jesus, 

Lillian M. Comee, 

Somerville, Mass. 



20 Ferry Street, Everett, Mass., April 22, 1891. 
Elder Raymond : — I had been troubled with catarrh for over five 
3'ears when I heard of you and your work of healing by faith. I 
had used medicine when I lived in Nova Scotia and after I came 
to Boston, but received no lasting benefit. After you praj^ed 
for my healing I came home and laid aside the medicine. The 
second time you prayed for me I threw away the medicine, and 
with God's help, will never touch it again. lam perfectly healed, 
and if I had time would tell you more about it. 

Yours truly, Mrs. Sarah H. Hutchinson. 



Cambridgeport, May, 1891. 

I give this testimony for the glory of God. About a year ago I 
had overworked, and was taken down with grippe, then pneumonia 
followed, which left me very much out of health. When able 
to go out, I heard about Elder Raymond's meetings in Chelsea, 
so came over and attended one. I had long wanted to do special 
work for the Master, but felt the need of a baptism of the Spirit. 
I went up to Rev. H. L. Hastings' house and had Elder Raymond 
anoint me, and pray that I might be fitted for special service. 
When he did, I was wholly restored to health, and received a spe- 
cial baptsim of the Spirit, which I so much desired. 

I waited before the Lord for the right leadings, and He led me 

to work among the man}" gypsies camped around the different 

cities. They receive me gladl}", and are ready to listen to all the 

teachings of the blessed Word, and like to have me pray with 

them. Within the past five weeks God has given me seven souls, 

one over seventy years old. Many more are interested — and with 

His help I expect to see them saved. My heart is one song of 

praise that my feet were " guided " to Brother Raymond. * 'Praise 

the Lord, O my soul, and all that is within me praise His great 

and hoi}" name." In Jesus, 

Walter C. Smith. 



ELDER W. G. RAYMOND. 225 

East Boston, April 15, 1891. 
Dear Brother Rayraond : — I am only too glad to add my testi- 
mony to those you have already. I was born thirty-six years ago 
totally blind, and remained so until two years old, when my sight 
began to come gradual l}'^ to one half of the left eye. I have always 
been obliged to use glasses, or shade one corner of the eye to read. 
I had not heard anything in my left ear for fifteen years. One 
of the best physicians in Boston pronounced it incurable. My 
attention was called to your faith healing about two months ago, 
I came to you and was anointed and prayed with, and now I am 
able to read without glasses with my left eye, and the sight is 
returning to the other, so now I can distinguish objects and colors, 
and the double cataract which caused my blindness is fast decreas- 
ing. I can hear a clock tick with my left ear. I feel that I can 
praise God for using you as an instrument in His hands, in restor- 
ing my ej^esight and hearing. Yours truly, 

S. P. Sampson. 



Somerville, Mass., May 11, 1891. 
Elder Raymond, 

My Dear Brother in Christ : — Do you remember the young 
lady who came to you five nights ago to-day with Mrs. Champney, 
who had been prayed with by 3'ou and others in Cambridge, whom 
the devil had so buffeted ? 

I feel that for the glory of God I want to bear witness to you, 
and to dear sisters Snow and Hastings, that the dear Lord has 
blessedly answered the prayer of faith for me. 

The healing has come gradually, with many temptations from 
which thus far the Lord has delivered me, and has surely answered 
yo,ur prayer in unmasking Satan to me, He comes even now tell- 
ing me it will not last long, etc., but he is a conquered foe, and 
" Jesus came to destroy the works of the devil," 

I thank God for leading me to you, and the dear sisters men- 
tioned. I pray that you may be a blessing to a great many others, 
as God has made you to me. 

I wished to come and see you again, but the Lord closed the 
way, and has been teaching me far more precious lessons than 
I could have been learned in an instantaneous healing. 
15 



226 LIFE SKETCHES OF 

Asking you to pray for me as the Lord leads, and praising 
God for the ministr}^ He has given you, I remain 
Your Sister in Christ, 

Sarah E. Corliss. 



Elder Raymond, 

Dear Sir : — I would like to add my testimony of God's healing 
me in answer to jour prayer of faith. My nervous system had 
been in such a terrible condition for seven or eight years, that I 
had very little control over my limbs. Was fearful of St. Vitus* 
dance. Doctors said I must not go to church, neither sew or read 
much. After seeing your power, and the miracles you wrought, 
I had you pray with me, and God has healed me wholly in answer 
to those prayers. 

I can do any kind of hard work, sew and read as I please. I 
attend church and sit as quietly as any one, and enjoy the sermon. 

God has all the glory. May He bless and strengthen you in 
your work, and spare you long years to do His will. 

Yours in Christ, Mrs. S. C. Randing, 

30 Lillian Ave., Lynn, Mass. 



In 1876, I was terribly injured by falling down stairs and strik- 
ing on my right side, which brought on a miscarriage and mis- 
placement. Dr. Cook, of Pictou, was called and said it would 
prove fatal. He treated me three years, but did not cure. After 
he left Dr. Kirkwood treated me seven years. I had a large cal- 
loused lump in my side, and he said the stomach was decayed. 
The only way I received my food was through a stomach pump. 
I had lost the use of my right side, and had to be moved on a 
sheet. Said my only relief while J lived would be by the use of 
morphine. I began to plead with God to know what he was will- 
ing to do. He surrounded me with a bright light, and a voice said, 
" Rest in peace, thy faith hath made thee whole. I have a 
work for thee to do." A lady who believed in faith healing made 
an appointment with Dr. Cullis of Boston, Carrie Judd of Buf- 
falo, and Miss Wilkes of Iowa, to pray for me one afternoon. I 
pulled off m}^ plasters, had the tube taken from my side. At 
the specified hour they took me on the sheet from the bed to the 
floor, leaning me against the bed, covering me with a quilt, and 



ELDER W. G. RAYMOND. 227 

left me at my request, to pray. I said, " now Jesus let me touch 
the hem of Thy garment and I shall be made whole " ; then fell 
asleep. My husband being alarmed at my silence looked in, and 
thought me dead. When he spoke I awakened, and asked for my 
clothes. After their astonishment subsided they gave them to me, 
I dressed and walked to the kitchen and got my own supper and 
ate it, for all were too amazed to be able to work. I ate with an 
appetite. I was soon well except being obliged to wear an inward 
support, which I felt I must always wear because the parts were 
so weak. I came to Chelsea in the winter of 1891, and met Elder 
Raymond who prayed with me and I removed the supporter, and 
got full victory, in answer to his prayer. Am now rejoicing in a 
sound well body. To God be all the glory. 

Jennie Goldsmith, Pictou, N. S. 



Sick Room, 3006 Vernon Ave., 
Rev. Wm. G. Raymond, Chicago, 111., Dec. 7th 1886. 

Dear Brother: — Yours of the 18th was received on the 20th 
inst. Thanks. On the 23rd I invited the Elders of the Church 
to come and pray for me ; some eight persons were present, and 
after reading the promises of your leaflet, we all pra3'ed, and had 
a melting seas'on. I gave my case into the hands of the " Great 
Physician." I feel like leaving all in Jesus' hands. 

I am much obliged to 3'ou for your family history. I never knew 
3'our father, but suppose we came from the same stock, in years 
gone by. In your long labors with Brother Knapp, you had a rare 
opportunity to learn his power with God, and his skill, in dealing 
with men. He was a mighty man of God. Rev. Jabez S. Swan 
was another of God's giants, in revival work. Both are now in 
glory. I will soon, I trust, meet them over there. I am tired, 
and must close. I hope 3'ou will still pray for me. May God 
bless you greatly in his work. Fraternally yours, Good bye, 

Lewis Raymond- 



3006 Vernon Ave., Chicago, 
Rev. Wm. G. Raymond, Jan. 9th, 1887. 

Dear Brother: — Your good letter came in time, and is before 
me. Thanks. I rejoice for the great blessings God has bestowed 
on you, and the rich gifts he has imparted, and more than all, that 



22S LIFE SKETCHES OF 

souls are saved, through your instrumentalities. For after all, 
William, this is our great work. " I am made all things to all 
men, that I might by all means save some." But I am glad God 
gives you power to heal the sick, for that is a good work too ; I 
also feel grateful for your prayers for me. I believe God has 
heard ; and if my faith had been sufficient, possibl}^ I should 
now be rejoicing in a thorough healing. I do believe I have com- 
mitted all to the Great Physician, and hope my faith will grow 
exceedingl}^, till the victory is complete. God be praised for what 
I now enjoy, and ma}^ the divine Spirit lead me till "filled with all 
the fullness of God." ... I rejoice with you, in the return 
of the daughter to the Shepherd and Bishop of her soul. I'or the 
first time in over five weeks I went to church, this morning, and 
when they crowded around me to give me greeting, and Pastor 
Henson came down out of the pulpit to shake hands, I felt how 
precious is the communion of saints, even here, and O, when per- 
fected in the church triumphant, what will it be to be there ! But 
I feel I lack the fullness of the peace, rest, and joy which you 
express ; but I know I am the child of a King. Praised be God ! 
I am leaning on the mighty Saviour ; pray that I may swing oflf 
and know the liberty that makes us free. Go on then, be wise — 
stick to the plan and doctrine of the Great Head of the Church, 
and you will see greater triumphs ; still on, souls savedv baptised, 
and going on their way rejoicing. Hallelujah to the Lamb ! To pick 
up such lost sinners, and save us, and then make us heralds of his 
love ! Well, I must close. You speak of the friends gone before. 
My father's family, of ten children, all gone but myself and one 
sister. And wife's parents had twelve children ; all gone but her- 
self and one sister, and seven of my own family, over the river, 
waiting a meeting at the right hand of God. Write again. 

Fraternally yours, Lewis Raymond. 



3521 Vernon Avenue, Chicago, Dec. 5th, 1886. 
Dear Elder Raymond and Thine in the Lord : — It was my privi- 
lege, this morning, to read to your cousin, Elder Lewis Raymond, 
the account of Minnie's healing and baptism, from a Baltimore 
paper (or under date of Nov. 30th, from Baltimore). He is in 
his eightieth year, and is failing but destined to fall in the har- 
ness. His life has been full of great usefulness, and incessant 



ELDER W. G. RAYMOND. 229 

toil. A ripened shock, he may be truly said to be. He enquired to 
know your initials, but it had gone from our mind, if ever we had 
known. His address is 3006 Vernon Avenue, Chicago. His ill- 
ness at present confines him to the house, but not to the bed. He 
said, tell my cousin to pray for me, he also asked the prayers of 
Divine Healing service held eleven a. m., Saturday, in Chicago, 
at 15 E. Washington Street, when he expects to be definitely 
raised up, in answer to prayer. It would be to the building up of 
the walls of Zion. He is not clear as regards the use of means, 
as appointed of the Lord. James v : 14, 15. " The Lord direct 
thee, in breathings for him, and if so be, direct thy steps to him ; 
that himself, may be glorified." God's favor has rested measur- 
ably upon us in publishing the good news of salvation. Mark 
xvi : 20. The increase is very manifest, springing forth from 
His messengers, to Glory in many. One left camp ground in 
September, leaving two crutches, used in seven years, in victory 
through grace. One lately divested of fibrous tumor is going 
forth in victory, the anointed of the Lord, for body, soul, and 
spirit, lighting up the dark places. We would be glad to hear 
from thee, end thy work in the Lord. Greetings to all in thy 
house, who are of the household of faith. In kind, 

D WIGHT AND Ellen Norton. 



Monroeville, Ohio, Nov. 14, 1887. 
Dear Elder Raymond: — Seeing; your address in Triumphs of 
Faith, and having been much in the spirit of prayer and praise for 
thee, and for the work of God, in and through thee, we are con- 
strained to write thee, giving thanks to God for thee ever in our 
prayers. Hopeful God's directing hand may be discerned, in 
appointing thee to come to Chicago, D. V., to be present at con- 
vention of National Alliance, A. B., 7th and 8th Dec. A wide 
and effectual door has been opened to thee, in that field of labor, 
in the raising up of thy cousin, Elder Lewis Raymond, who writes 
he is able to do a full hand's work, in building up the walls of 
Zion, having passed his eightieth year. He was principal factor 
in a revival which swept through January and February last in 
First Baptist Church, Chicago, twelve hundred members having been 
confessedly raised up. After anointing in accordance with James 
v: 14, 15, participated in by Pastor Dr. Henson, and officers of 
church. May God direct your steps thither speedily. You will 



5^30 LIFE SKETCHES OF 

find a fellowship in that field, needing your labors, and who will 
welcome you. God is calling in his Zion to take higher ground. 
2d Cor. xi : 29, 30. In kind, Dwight and Ellen Norton. 

The diseases of Elder Lewis Raymond, were kidney, bladder, 
and a general breaking down of the entire system, and the physi- 
cians were obliged to use their instruments upon him every day. 
This brother and wife (Brother and Sister Norton), have traveled 
extensively throughout the United States and in Europe. Their 
present P. O. address I do not know. I believe the time will 
come when the way will open for me to labor in Chicago. 

w. G. R. 



Executive Mansion, Washington, 
July 26, 1884. 
I am directed to acknowledged the receipt of your letter of the 
22d instant to the President. Very truly yours, 

O. L. Pruden, Secretary. 
The Reverend Wm. G. Raymond, 
Washington, D. C. 



Letter from General H. Nye, after the Death of his 

Dear Wife. 

Ofl3ce Laurel Mills of Prince George's County. 

Laurel, Md., January 8th, 1884. 
Elder W. G. Raymond, 

Dear Friend: — Your kind and sympathetic letter of the 1st 
inst. came duly to hand, and should have had earlier attention. 
My dear wife passed away firm in the faith, that she would soon 
meet the loved ones, who had gone on before, aud would with them 
await our coming to that Heavenly land where parting would for- 
ever end. She does not seem dead to me or our children, but ever 
seems present with us by day and night, and whilst I write, it 
seems as though I hear her whispering " Send my love to Elder 
Raymond." But I can but feel lonely at times, for I miss the soft 
clasp of her hand, and her warm breath on m}'' cheek, and I still 
keep listening for those words she never more will speak — until I 
too, cross the shining river, and join her and the loved ones on the 
other side. We have many there, and we hope to be ever ready 
to respond to the welcome summons. For my dear wife will be 



ELDER W. G. RAYMOND. 231 

missed by very many outside of our own family, she was a worker 
for the good cause, and friends had faith to believe that God would 
spare her to continue her good work, but she was prepared for 
whatever He had in store for her. We doubt not but what He 
could have raised her up, and O, how fervently we prayed if it 
was His will, to do so. Her remains were carried to Maine, and 
laid by the side of our two children, who rest there, and many of 
her relatives and friends of her childhood. I took her from her 
country home thirty-two years ago last Thanksgiving, and a loving 
and pleasant journey we have had, and we will resume the jour- 
ney, when God calls us to meet again. My two youngest children 
returned to school yesterday after their sad holiday. With kind 
regards from all my children to you and kind friends, I remain, 

Yours truly, G. H. Nye. 



Western Hotel, Williams, Cal., 
William G. Raymond, Jan. 2d, 1885. 

Dear Brother: — I am sanctified, have placed all on the altar 
Christ Jesus. I have an afflicted body. Pray that I may be 
healed by the power of God. My disease is impurity of the blood 
and female weakness. Your Sister in Christ, 

Mrs. Sarah Armstrong. 



Office of H. C. Herring, Secretary N. C. State Dental 

Association, 

Concord, N. C, Aug. 24, 1888. 
Dear Mr. Raymond : — I noticed in Monday's Herald some 
remarkable cures which your sect has performed. Could you give 
me some information or in some way help us ? 

Our first and only baby, two years of age, a bright and sprightly 
little girl is almost deaf. Could you help her? Please advise us. 
I would give any thing to have her hearing restored. 
Hoping to hear from you, I am. Yours respectfully, 

H. C. Herring. 



Concord, N. C, Oct. 5, 1888. 

Dear Mr. Raymond : — I wrote you about three weeks ago, but 

I have not heard a word from you. Did you get my letter? 

Among other things I asked if it would be of any advantage to 

take our little child to you. Oh ! Mr. Raymond, if you could be 



232 LIFE SKETCHES OF 

instrumental in restoring her hearing. I would not only give any 
thing in my power, but I know God would reward you most abun- 
dantly. Please write me and oblige an anxious friend. 

H. C. Herring. 



1522 14th St., N. W., June 12, 1884. 
Dr. J. W. Clift, 

Sir: — Yours of the 11th just received and I hasten to relieve 
my afflicted brother. Tell your friend Mr. Murphy, that I rejoice 
that I am counted worthy to suffer persecution for Christ's sake. 
I have not a doubt but what Paul and Silas when they prayed at 
midnight and sang praises to God, creating a great earthquake and 
waking all the prisoners, felt some of the same spirit and power 
that came over me, while I prayed at Mr. Murphy's, for I felt that 
scores were locked up in their cells of unbelief and formality. 
And if Mr. Murphy the keeper of the house had done as the keeper 
of the prison did, and cajjed for light, the Lord would have saved 
him and his house. I have never discovered before, that the meet- 
ings disturbed him. And if such men as yourself would seek to 
drive the arrow deeper, instead of pulling it out, there would be 
hopes of his salvation yet. I don't believe that one person in that 
house felt the rebuke of the Spirit more than yourself, and I be- 
lieve the Lord will rebuke you, if j'ou do not cease your criticisms 
on his children. If the truth were known you are at the bottom of 
all this trouble. The Spirit maketh intercession for us with groan- 
ings that cannot be uttered. And he searcheth the hearts, and 
knows our thoughts, intents, and purposes, and we cannot deceive 
God. And suddenly there came a power from heaven, and filled 
all the house, but it might not have been a private house. What 
would you have done if they had all begun to speak with new 
tongues and were all filled with the Holy Ghost. I now call your 
attention to the man who was healed after forty years, and leaped 
and praised God. Suppose some one there had been healed, and 
the multitudes had come round to see, would any one have com- 
plained but the Pharisees, and the D. D.'s, and the M. D.'s? If 
some person had crowded in to see and get healed, or had taken off 
the roof to get in to be healed, — What would have been the result? 
Would the man of the house have made the Master pay the dam- 
ages? When Daniel prayed, the windows being opened, he did 
not shut them, but prayed right on, and they heard him praj'. And 



ELDER W. G. RAYMOND. 233 

the lions' den awaited hini. Do 3'ou know of any den of lions 
waiting for me ? If so, by the grace of God I shall continue to pray. 
And if they do not receive me in one house or city, I shall shake 
the dust off my feet as a testimony against them, for Jesus says 
it shall be more tolerable for Tyre and Sidon than that place. 
When Zion travails she brings forth, and when a woman travails you 
know in 3'our professional business it means pain and sorrow, till 
the child is brought forth, and she feels no restraint put upon her 
until she is delivered, then there is joy that a man is born into the 
world. The scriptures sa}- there are those who have the form of 
godliness and deny the power, from such turn awa}'. Your cant 
on camp-meetings, I do not care to comment on at this time, I 
leave that for you to settle with those who attend camp-meetings. 
The long speeches you criticise — Sister Stagmer from Baltimore, 
by special request, gave a short account of her healing, which I 
trust was interesting to all. I spoke three or four minutes, to intro- 
duce her. .......... 

Dr. Clift spoke eight or ten minutes, some 
thought, to criticise what I said. Bro. Buck spoke twelve or fif- 
teen minutes, to criticise what you said. Now 1 do not know who 
3''0u are driving at in this criticism. I don't accept it for myself. 
You express great regret at my offering a H0I3' Ghost pra3^er, for 
fear of losing influence over good people, who ma3'^ be strangers to 
the power of the 11013' Grhost in religion. I am not conscious of 
having brought discredit on myself or God's work in this city, or 
any where else, b3^ pra3'er or in an3' other way. Neither do I pre- 
tend, or dare to say that the healing power of the H0I3' Ghost is 
Sanctified animal magnetism. Now Doctor, I am willing that this 
correspondence be published, and have kept an exact copy of this 
for that purpose. As I do not intend as a servant of the Lord 
Jesus Christ, to allow you to shut m3' mouth in prayer on any 
occasion. I am Sir, In the faith, W. G. Raymond. 



Chelsea, Mass., Aug. 18th. 
I should not have published this letter of Dr. Cliffs, in my book, 
had I not learned of a criminal letter, sent through the U. S. mail, 
(which offence is subject to a heav3' fine and imprisonment), to a 
woman on Broadway, Chelsea, (the most inveterate enem^^ I ever 
had), which, with several other criminal letters, she put on exhi- 
bition, in violation of the laws of the United States. I believe 
that they will 3'et be called to account for their slander. 



234 LIFE SKETCHES OF 

Only a few months previous, Dr. Clift sent a letter to the Faith 
Home in Lansingburgh, N. Y., inquiring after me, as he desired 
my prayers, and seemed to hold me in great regard. w. g. r. 



Greenwood, Caddo Parish, La. 
Elder W. G. Raymond, Dec. 15th, 1886. 

337 Myrtle Avenue, Baltimore, Md. 

Rev. Father : — My husband has been a great sufferer for eleven 
(11) years, with rheumatism, has now cancer of the tongue, and 
I fear beyond -human aid. If God does not do something for him 
he cannot live long. Seeing the wonderful cure of Miss Addicks 
in the paper I wrote to her, and she referred me to you. Now 
Father, we have implicit faith in the power of Jesus, and would 
ask 3'ou to set apart a special day, or days, to pray for him, while 
we are waiting for an answer. And please let us know what days 
they are. Please let us hear from you at j'our earliest conven- 
ience. Respectfully, Mrs. E. G. Calhoun. 
Direct Mrs. Ellen G. Calhoun, 

Greenwood, Caddo Parish, La. 

P. S. My husband's name is John Caldwell Calhoun, Medical 
Director. 



The following letter from the Auburn Baptist Church (Kansas) 
was received just before my departure for Brookfield, Pa., with my 
sick wife, who lived only six weeks after reaching there : 

Since it has pleased God in his providence to afflict our Dear 
Sister Raymond, wife of Brother W. G. Raymond, former Pastor 
of the Baptist Church in Auburn, Kans., and since, owing to the 
state of her health, they deem it necessary to remove from our 
midst, with the hope that health may be restored to our Sister. 

Therefore, Resolved^ that we, the members of the Baptist 
Church of Auburn, and people of Auburn, sympathize deeply in 
their affliction, and praj^ God, if, in accordance with his will, she 
may be speedily restored to health. 

G. W. Melton, Pastor. 

Auburn, Kansas, June 9, 1872. L. P. Mills, Clerk. 

According to this letter, the Lord is responsible for all sickness. 
If there ever was a saint, my wife was one. Can we believe that 
God was destroying Christ's property ? Christ paid a great ran- 
som for her. Sickness comes through disease or sin, and the 
devil ; so I believe and teach and practicco w. g. r. 



ELDER W. G. RAYMOND. 235 

My Correspondence with A. B. Simpson. 

New York, Oct. 7, 1888. 

My Dear Brother : — I am deeply grieved to find since I went to 
Ohio and Old Orchard that you have contrary to the most earnest 
counsel of Dr. Cookman and myself become identified with Mr. 
Raj'mond and Mrs. Johnson. The public announcement of their 
names and appointments have been sent me and many earnest and 
Oodly people who desired to attend your services have been 
grieved and hindered. 

I need hardly say to you that after much prayer and consulta- 
tion with Dr. Cookman we are obliged by our conscience and our 
loyalty to Christ's truth and our own position as witnesses for the 
truth, to withdraw our fellowship from the work, and guard God's 
dear children from error and Spiritual danger. 



^ 



<r7«,^€>^ /«</ 



yV^i>i^<j^ 




P. S. I need hardly say to 3'ou how deeply I deplore the neces- 
sity for this and how truly I have cared and desired to help you 
in your work. a. b. s. 



New York, April 12, 1889. 
Rev. W. G. Raymond, 

Jersey City, N. J., 

My Bear Brother : — Only the hurry of overwhelming work has 
prevented my writing you sooner in answer to your kind letter of 
March loth. 

I am very glad to state frankly to you the reasons why Dr. 
Cookman and myself were not free to work in entire cooperation 
with you in connection with the Elsey Chapel. 

Neither of us have any personal charges of any kind, or objec- 
tions, or any right to interfere with you or judge you as a private 
Christian. 



236 LIFE SKETCHES OF 

It is simpl}'' 3'our public teaching and work with which we have 
no concern, and this we have a right to consider most carefully 
before committing ourselves responsibly to any work. 

Our reason for caution in this matter is mainly because of what 
you 3'ourself have said to me in our personal conversations about 
your work, and from what we directly know of its effect in other 
places. 

You know you spoke to me most frankly of your plans of organ- 
izing churches and ordaining elders in various places, with view, 
as I understood it, of instituting some sort of general apostolic 
church in which you received the people, and for which you 
ordained them elders. 

I need not say that this would be regarded by all evangelical 
churches as infringing upon their ecclesiastical rights, and assum- 
ing what would be offensive to them. 

Our course, as ministers, has been to recognize all the evan- 
gelical churches as branches of the Church of Christ, notwith- 
standing all their imperfections. 

My own church is simply a particular congregation, consisting 
of such persons as the Lord has sent to me directly to be organ- 
ized into a local work. And even then, I never received members 
from other churches without a proper and courteous understand- 
ing with these churches ; giving the opportunity of their dismissing 
their members by certificate, if they so desire. 

I never enter into another pastor's field, and interfere with his 
members, or organize churches in any place, nor feel that I have 
any right to do it. 

If the Lord Himself leads the brethren in a particular place to 
organize a distant church and work for Him, in a good spirit, and 
with proper courtesy to the neighboring churches, and I feel that 
they are really called of the Lord, in a position to sustain the 
work for Him, and carry it on as a bona fide local church, and not 
a mere name, I am always glad to encourage and help them in 
ievery wa}^ I can. 

But I should regard myself as interfering with the rights of my 
brethren, and giving occasion for offence, were I to go throughout 
the country, announcing myself as organizing churches, and bap- 
tizing into the Church of Christ, and ordaining elders without any 
local organization, or proper provision for the oversight of the 
work. 



ELDER W. G. RAYMOND. 237 

Now it was the actual effect which followed your work in Troy, 
just at the time when we were to have held a Convention there, 
which led us to see the necessity of acting with great caution. 

I need not say to you that the Pastors there became much alien- 
ated by your methods, and the very church in which we were to 
have held our Convention afterwards refused to allow the use of 
this building solely in consequence of these things. 

I am not judging your rights to do just what j^ou did, that is 
your responsibility and not mine ; I am simply sa3'ing that I could 
not associate myself, nor could my brother, with such tendencies, 
inasmuch as it would be fatal to the ministry the Lord has given 
to us among His people, and lead to our being entirely misunder- 
stood in the spirit and aim of our work as we go to various places. 

Our desire is to strengthen the hands of all true brethren, and 
have them feel that we do not expect to alienate their congrega- 
tions, or ignore their pastoral rights, but to work with them in a 
spirit of gentleness and love, where we can, and where they will 
not receive us, win, at least, their respect by the same tender con- 
sideration. 

The result of this course has been, that in -almost every place, 
many of the churches are open to our work, and, at the present 
time, I have invitations from four or five distinct pastors in one of 
the largest cities of the West to go to their churches with my 
brethren and preach the Four Fold Gospel in all its fullness, while 
others who go in an aggressive and interfering spirit would not be 
received, and thus the opportunity would be lost for bearing tes- 
timony to these very people of the deeper truths which they do not 
as yet know. 

For this reason, and for this alone, I do not feel that we could 
be associated with the work in Jersey City, if you were to he its 
leader. 

I did not speak to Mr. Elsey to have you leave. I begged him 
not to do so on my account, because of m}^ opinion ; I simply told 
him that we could not be associated publicly for the reason that 
your position, with reference to the churches, was such that we 
would be misunderstood and hindered in our work, and that if the 
Lord wanted you to work and teach with them it was perfectly 
proper for you to do so, and understand that we were not responsi- 
ble in any way for the work, but not in an}^ measure hindering or 
opposing it. 



238 LIFE SKETCHES OF 

As to Mrs. Johnson, we could not possibly be connected in any 
sense with her name or teachings, because I know from an expe- 
rience of 3^ear8, and an intimate acquaintance, that her teachings 
are wholly out of harmony with the things that we most sacredly 
believe. 

With true Christian regard and love to you personally in Christy 
my dear brother, I am, Yours in Him, 

A. B. Simpson. 



171 York St., Jersey City, N. J., 

July, 1889. 
Rev. a. B. Simpson, 

Dear Brother in Christ: — Yours of April 12th in answer to 
mine written you March 11th, is received, and I take the first 
opportunity that offers to answer it. 

You say " I am very glad to state frankly the reason why Dr. 
Cookman and myself were not free to work in entire cooperation 
with you in connection with the Elsey Chapel." This was not 
made a point in my letter, for you had not been, so far as I know, 
invited, or expected to do so. You did not write to Brother 
Elsey of withdrawing your labors, but your *' fellowship from the 
work," for j^ou say to him, '* You have, contrary to the most ear- 
nest counsel of Dr. Cookman and myself, become identified with 
Mr. Raymond." You did not even call me brother in that letter. 

You say, "It is simpl}'^ your public teaching and work, with 
which we have no concern and this we have a right to consider 
most carefully, before committing ourselves responsibly to any 
work." I was not aware that you were in any way considered 
responsible for the work in Elsey Chapel. It was not intimated 
to me, on the contrary, Brother and Sister Elsey stated that you 
had nothing to do with the management of the Chapel ; that 3'ou 
had failed to fulfill your engagement ; also that they had detected 
that you were seeking to get the Chapel out of their hands, and 
that they had determined as they had to support it, they should 
hold it in their own hands, and that Bro. Elsey had written you to 
the effect that you need not send any one to fill the desk, for they 
had employed Bro. Raymond. 

Mrs. Elsey engaged Mrs. Johnson to fill the three o'clock 
appointment Sunday afternoon, as Bro. Elsey and I had to attend 
the grove and baptismal service ; as I stated in my previous letter. 



ELDER W. G. RAYMOND. 239 

I had nothing to do with Mrs. Johnson's appointment and frankly 
told her, I could not endorse all her teachings. 

I did not seek the position as Pastor there, and should not have 
accepted it, had I supposed that any other person was respon- 
sible for m}' teaching there, for I received my commissions from 
the Lord and to Him, above all, I am responsible. If faithful in 
meeting the responsibility. He places upon me, in delivering in the 
power of the Spirit, the messages he gives me, and living day by 
day in that same power, ever}^ responsibility to all who come within 
the range of my influence, will be met, though such discharge of 
duty before God, will bring upon us the antagonism of many. I 
can afford to walk in the steps of Jesus. He was antagonized, 
and so were the early disciples, by the most popular religious 
teachers of their day, and the cross of Christ has not j'et lost its 
offence. Popularity with the world, and worldly-minded profes- 
sors of religions, (and you well know that the masses in the 
churches are now of this class) means disloyalty in some respect 
or other, to Christ. Hence, it is no proof that a minister of the 
Gospel is pursuing a wrong course, or teaching anything unscript- 
ural, because he is an offence to such. 

You say, " You spoke to me of organizing churches, and 
ordaining Elders in various places, with a view, as I understand 
it, of instituting some sort of general Apostolic church, etc.** 
You certainly misunderstood me, for from the time I was healed, 
and called by the Holy Ghost into the special work, in which I am 
now engaged, it has been clearly shown me that the Church of 
God, is the Gospel Church according to the Scriptures. See Acts 
XX : 28. Notice Paul says, "Over the which the Holy Ghost, 
hath made you overseers, to feed the Church of God which he hath 
purchased with his own blood." I claim the Holy Ghost has given 
me my work. The first Gentile church, Paul writes, is called the 
Church of God. 1 Cor. i: 1st and 2nd verses, "Unto the 
Church of God which is at Corinth, to them that are sanctified in 
Christ Jesus, called to be saints, with all that in every place call 
upon the name of Jesus Christ our Lord, both theirs and ours." 
10th verse, " Now I beseech you, brethren, bj the name of our 
Lord Jesus Christ, that ye all speak the same thing, and that there 
be no divisions among you ; but that ye be perfectly joined 
together, in the same mind, and in the same judgment." Chap. 
x: 32, 33, " Give none offence, neither to the Jews, nor to the 



240 LIFE SKETCHES OF 

Gentiles, nor to the Church of God. Even as I please all men in 
^11 things, not seeking mine own profit, but the profit of many, 
that they may be saved." Chapter xi : 16, 22, *' But if any man 
seem to be contentious, we have no such custom, neither the 
Churches of God. What? have ye not houses to eat and to drink 
in ? or despise ye the Church of God, and shame them that have 
not. What shall I say to you, shall I praise 3'ou in this, I praise 
you not." Chapter xv : 9, 10. " For I am the least of the apos- 
tles, that am not meet to be called an apostle, because I persecuted 
the Church of God. But by the grace of God, I am, what I am ; 
and his grace which was bestowed upon me was not in vain, but I 
labored more abundantly than they all, 3'et not I, but the grace of 
God, which was with me." In 2 Cor. i : 1 , Paul calls it the Church of 
God, and in this verse addresses the saints which are in all Achaia. 
In Gal. i: 13, he says, " beyond measure I persecuted the 
Church of God and wasted it." I can say the same as he said, in 
the 11th, 12th, and 13th verses of the same chapter, " But I certify 
you, brethren, that the gospel which was preached of me is not 
after man. For I neither received it of man, neither was I taught 
it, but by the revelation of Jesus Christ. For ye have heard of 
m}' conversation in time past in the Jews' religion, how that beyond 
measure, I persecuted the Church of God, and wasted it." All 
the churches were recognized by Paul as the Churches of God. 

In Christ, there can be no denomnations as such, though there 
may be many in the denominations that are in Christ, and as in 
the Church of God, which is the body of Christ. See 2 Thes. i : 
1, 4. 4th, " So that we ourselves glory in j^ou in the Churches 
of God, for your patience, and faith in all your persecutions, and 
tribulations that ye endure." 1 Tim. iii : 5, 15, *' For if a man 
know not how to rule his own house, how shall he take care of the 
Church of God ? But if I tarry long that thou mayest know how 
thou oughtest to behave thyself in the house of God which is the 
Church of the living God, the pillar and ground of the truth." 
The Church of God in its working order is brought before us, in 
1 Corinthians xii ; with every verse of which you are familiar. 
Notice particularly, verses 13, 18, 25, and 28, " For by one 
Spirit are we all baptized into one body, whether we be Jews 
or Gentiles, whether we be bond or free, and have been all made 
to drink into one Spirit. But now hath God set the members, 
every one of them in the bod}', as it hath pleased him. That there 



ELDER W. G. RAYMOND. 241 

should be no schism in the body, but that the members should 
have the same care one for another. And God hath set some in 
the Church, first apostles, secondarily prophets, thirdly teachers, 
after that miracles, then gifts of healing, helps, governments, 
diversities of tongues." 

I baptize those who give evidence of a change of heart through 
faith in Jesus Christ, just as Philip baptized the eunuch. All the 
leadings and authority or permission Philip had, was the Holy 
Ghost. So with me, though I might take as my authority my 
ordination as a Baptist minister, which occurred over forty-six 
years ago. As I baptize in the name of the Father, Son and Holy 
Ghost, the Lord (not I) adds them to the Church of God, already 
formed by Him, not me. " Now hath God set the members, 
every one of them in the body, as it hath pleased him." See 
1st Cor. xii : 18 and Acts viii : 28-40. Philip did not even look 
after the eunuch but " saw him no more." So, my dear brother 
Simpson, you will see by this, that I lay no claim to organizing 
Churches or instituting some general " Apostolic Church," but 
that the general church is already instituted by God. So I never 
seek to disturb the organization to which those whom I baptize 
may belong, but tell them if they can labor in them, to remain 
there, but if not, allowed to testify as the Spirit leads, regarding 
the healing of their bodies by the Lord, I say you had better come 
out and abide in the household Church of God. There are hun- 
dreds that are now working in the same denominations in which 
they were when 1 baptized them. You can find them in diflferent 
Churches in all the cities, where I have labored, and Pastors have 
sent me word that they would receive all that would come to them 
from my work. I have had no quarrel with any minister, since I 
have been in the Faith work. I have had as high as six or seven 
diflferent ministers, of diflferent denominations, at one time, in my 
faith meetings, right in Washington, D. C, and every one of them 
took active part. Only three out of these that I baptized in Troy 
and Lansingburgh left their church. 

Referring again to ordaining elders, as alread\' implied, my 
authority is the Holy Ghost, by whom, I believe, I am moved to 
set apart some as Elders, and upon such, I with others, lay hands, 
pouring on oil, and praying that they may receive the Holy 
Ghost. I thus ordained Bro. Elsey, and while I was there he was 
associated with me in the ministry, and assisted me in the Sacra- 
16 



242 LIFE SKETCHES OF 

ment of the Lord's Supper. Also Bro. White, Bros. MacPhee 
and Bowers were thus ordained as Elders. Understand me, I do 
not do this ecclesiastically, but under the leadings of the Spirit, 
neither does this, an3'' more than the baptisms, Interfere with the 
Church organizations to which they may belong ; so you see there 
is no " infringing upon their ecclesiastical rights. See 2 Tim. 1 : 
6. Now Paul was not commissioned b}^ man to do this. See Gal. 
i: 11, 12, 15-19, 22-24. He had not himself had hand laid on 
him, save by Ananias who received his commission to do so from 
the Holy Ghost. Acts ix : 10-12, 17-19 : 1-6. 

If, at the time of the conversation to which you refer, 3^ou did 
not endorse my views, but considered the need of caution, why 
did 3"ou call on me to take part in your services in the Taberna- 
cle, to pray over, and lay hands on the afflicted, and to fill appoint- 
ments for you ? Wh}^ did 3'ou invite me to go with 3'ou to Old 
Orchard to your convention, assuring me, that it should be attended 
with no expense to me ? And wh3^ ask me to do all I could to 
work up an interest in Troy for the convention 3^ou proposed hold- 
ing there, in connection with Sister Musgrove. This 3'ou said, 
after I informed you I should pass through there on my way to 
Buffalo. 

Now, Bro. Simpson, when I was in your Tabernacle, and while 
you were engaged one da3' in anointing the sick, as intelligent a 
lad3' as I ever met with, in your congregation, came, requesting me 
to lay hands on her, and set her apart for special work. I did so, 
and the following week I heard her speak with great freedom in 
your meeting. Again she came to me, accompanied by a lady who 
also desired me to set her apart, which I did, and I think the 
Spirit approved. 

The Rev. Dr. Howe, a Baptist minister from Boston, called on 
me to be pra3^ed for, in Washington, D. C. Accompanying him was 
a very intelligent young lady, and in his presence she requested me 
to anoint her, and set her apart for a special work. I did so, with 
the approval of Dr. Howe, I only laying on hands. Now, my 
dear brother, did I commit offence in thus acting? I could give 
hundreds such cases. You sa3" ; '' Our course, as ministers, has 
been to recognize all the evangelical churches as branches of the 
churches of Christ, notwithstanding all their imperfections.'* 
Now, regarding denominations as such, I find that the Lord organ- 
ized none as branches of the Church of Christ. So far as the 



ELDER W. G. RAYMOND. 243 

name goes they are human, but I can recognize and fellowship all 
true, obedient Christians wherever found. Regarding " all their 
imperfections," I do, as a faithful servant of God, "lift up my 
voice like a trumpet and cry aloud and spare not." Isa. Iviii : 1, 2. 

You say, " my own Church is simply a particular congregation, 
consisting of such persons as the Lord has sent to me, directly to 
be organized into a local work." My dear brother, are you not 
willing I should have the same privilege ? I certainly have not 
forced or proselyted anyone, and, as before stated, baptized no 
one into or out of any organization. Regarding your *' never 
receiving members from other Churches without a courteous under- 
standing with those churches," allow me to inquire if you have 
always strictly adhered to that. I have been informed that you 
have not. 

You say, *' I have never entered another Pastor's field or organ- 
ized churches in any place, nor feel that I have any right to do 
it." Now, m}^ brother, if -one has no right to do this, there has 
been a wrong in the rise of every denomination in the world, in 
their aggressive work. Certainly no faith- work, including the 
healing of the body, could be even started in any community with 
the consent of the different churches whose members would desire 
to be identified with it. 

Your alliance gave an account of the organization of a Church: 
in Manchester (and it was not termed a " congregation simply " ) 
as the result of your convention there. Was not that right within 
the territory of the different pastors there ? And were these pas- 
tors all consulted, and their consent obtained? 

I read a letter written by one of the Elders of the Primitive 
Church (not congregation simply) in Bridgeport, Conn., in which 
he stated that, " this Church is in line with Dr. Simpson's work," 
and states that it was organized on account of the lack of liberty 
given the faith-people in the different churches. They had their 
Articles of Faith and Rules as any Church. You held your con- 
vention there, and dedicated that Church, as this Elder states.- 
Surely, the Churches there were not consulted. 

You say, " If the Lord Himself leads the brethren in a partic*^^ 
ular place, to organize a distinct Church, . . . with proper court- 
esy to other neighboring churches, and I feel that they are really 
called of the Lord, and in a position to sustain the work for him, 
and carry it on as a bona fide local Church, and not a mere name, 



244 LIFE SKETCHES OF 

I am always glad to encourage and help them in every way I 
can.'* 

Certainly, my dear brother, you would not claim the exclusive 
right to judge regarding such places and churches. How are we 
to understand what you consider as a " Bona fide local Church," 
when you disclaim that 3'ours.is such, but only a " particular con- 
gregation." Your people must be laboring under a delusion, for 
they all call it Dr. Simpson's Church. Should I follow your rule, I 
would be at a loss to know at what point I could give my support 
and sympathy to any Church. When is it that a Church needs 
help, when it first starts, or when it gets its full growth and 
strength? Suppose sympathy and help had thus been withheld 
from you, when you first started in the faith work, would your faith 
work have been financially and. numerically what it is to-day ? 

How am I to understand your statement, that you never inter- 
fere with another pastor and his members, when you know that the 
letter you wrote Bro. Elsey was designed as the instrument of 
throwing me out from my field and pastorate ? 

You say, " I should regard myself as interfering with the rights 
of my brethren and giving occasion for offence, were I to go 
throughout the country, announcing mj'self as organizing churches, 
and baptizing . . . into the Church of Christ, and ordaining 
elders, without any local organization, or proper provision for the 
oversight of the work." 

All this I have really answered, and simply say, I would no 
more dare to refuse to baptize one, than to lead one to Christ. 
If you refer to me, as recklessly going throughout the country, 
I do not take it as applying to me. 

You say, " It was the actual effect which followed your work in 
Troy, just at the time when we were to have held a convention 
there, which led us to see the necessity of acting with great cau- 
tions. . . . The pastors there became much alienated by your meth- 
ods, and the very Church, in which we were to have held our con- 
vention, afterwards refused to allow us the use of this building, 
solely in consequence of these things." The first, and great hin- 
dering cause, regarding the convention, I learned was your long 
delay in answering letters relating to it, and changing the time. 
Some, opposed to the convention, being in the Church, were absent 
from the board meeting when the vote was taken to allow you the 
use of the Church. So they only wanted a pretext for a cause to 



ELDER W. G. RAYMOND. 245 

shut you out. They did seize upon the baptizing some of their 
members as such a cause, but at the same time I was told it could 
not be in the Church anyway, at the second date appointed by 
you, as they would then be putting in a new organ. Then, had 
you answered Sister Musgrove's letter early enough, the conven- 
tion would have been held all the same, in a hall or skating rink, 
but the answer, stating you would come if she thought best, and 
hold it anywhere, came too late, to make the necessary arrange- 
ments, and she wrote you then, on that account, that she had 
decided not to have the convention. After she had written to that 
effect, you wrote, saying you thought you had better not come. 
I had baptized three, belonging to that church, but did not baptize 
them out of that church into another, and they had no thought at 
that time of leaving the Church, but to continue, as before, active 
in it. 

I had no thought of remaining more than a few days in Troy^ 
but Sister Musgrove was worn down with overwork, and the work 
increased, as the result of the first few da3's' labor there, and I 
was solicited to tarry, to help to lift the burdens for a while, and 
felt led of God to do so. The first time I called on Sister Mus- 
grove, she informed me that, for several years, she had waited for 
an opportunity to be baptized, without joining the Baptist Church, 
and had promised the Lord she would go forward in that ordi- 
nance, as soon as he would open the way. She had applied to 
one of her pastors to baptize her, but he refused, on the ground 
that it would be ignoring her sprinkling, and that no M. E. 
miinister could do. " Now," said she, " I believe the Lord leads 
me to ask you to baptize me." Others followed her, until twenty- 
eight were buried with Christ in baptism, some just saved, and 
others, from various churches, who were dissatisfied with sprink- 
ling. One, was a member of the family of a Dutch Reformed 
minister ; she came to Sister Musgrove to attend 3'our convention, 
and gladl}^ embraced the opportunity to follow her Master in bap- 
tism, and to return home and inform the famil}'. So far as I know, 
it has only been in some of the M. E. Churches, that any bitter- 
ness of feeling, regarding baptism, has arisen, but there have been 
sermons preached, in different churches, against the doctrine of 
Christ healing the bodies. Doubtless, false reports have been car- 
ried to you from Troy, but, my dear brother, had those in the 
faith-work heeded the reports regarding yourself, and your opera- 



246 LIFE SKETCHES OF 

tions from the first of your starting out in the faith work, how 
many would have been standing shoulder to shoulder with 3'ou to- 
day? In the Church to which Miss Musgrove belonged, the trou- 
ble did not originate with me. When she first started in the work, 
her own pastor was the second one healed, his disease, a cancer, 
and the first one healed was Bro. W. D. Sterry, a member of that 
Church. This pastor dedicated her first rooms, and was with her 
in sympath}', but in the church were some bitter opposers. Dur- 
ing the year quite a number in the Church accepted the doctrine, 
and the most prominent class-leader, at that time, was healed and 
soon after entered the ministrj^ and joined the Troy Conference. 
This man came to one of the meetings during the progress of my 
work there, and said to me, " Any time you will come to my 
place, my Church is open to you." I am informed, that, to the 
present day, knowing all the circumstances, he is in sj^mpathy 
with the work, and attends the meetings, whenever he is there. 
The pastor, succeeding the one healed of cancer, was so antago- 
nistic to the faith work, and referred to it in such terms in the 
pulpit, and other places, that she thought she would have to leave 
the church, in order to go on with the work of the Lord as given 
her. She sent for the pastor, and laid the matter before him, in 
the presence of others. He promised her then, that if she would 
not leave the church he would say nothing more against the work, 
and would give liberty to his people to attend the faith-meetings. 
That promise he did not keep, and when he left, just at the time I 
went to Troy, the presiding elder, who was also much like Dr. 
Buckly, in his antagonism, told his successor, that the work must 
be put down. With this new pastor Miss Musgrove had a con- 
versation of three hours in my hearing, in which she gave him her 
experience of the Lord's leading in the work, and to every point 
raised in objection to any teaching or course she had pursued, she 
gave him a " Thus saith the Lord," until he was compelled to 
reply, " There is nothing that I can see unscriptural in your 
course." He also said, " I believe the Lord is leading you. Yet 
in the church the feeling is 3^ou are irregular according to the dis- 
cipline." She then felt she had better be untrammelled in the 
work of the Lord, and that, as she prayed over the matter, the 
Lord led her to cull for her letter, which she did. Subsequently 
to this, without any reference to my work, some of the most effi- 
cient members of that church testified regarding faith healing, and 



ELDER W. G. RAYMOND. 247 

then the pastor commanded that no more testimonies be given in 
that line. Many were deepl}^ grieved, and Bro. W. D. Sterry, 
who was always very active in the social meetings, was led to have 
his name erased from the church book. Others, simply remained 
away from the church social meetings. After this the S. S. Supt., 
and a bitter opponent of the truth, asked those in the Sunday 
School who did not believe that Christ would heal bodies now to 
rise. The members of the school seemed not to dare to thus stand 
against the truths of God, save one man, an official member of the 
church. He stood alone. Soon after this his wife was given up 
by physicians to die, and he came to the Faith Home, and wanted 
Miss Musgrove and me to go and pray over her, as soon as we 
could ; we did so, and from that hour she began to amend, and 
recovered ; but neither of them ever returned to give God glory. 
The Rev. Mr. Wager, a M. E. minister acquainted with the work 
here, sent to the Home to have me and Miss Musgrove come and 
pray with his mother, who was ill ; we went, and the mother was 
healed. Without being asked, I was led to pray for his hand, at 
that time diseased, and it was healed. He attended your conven- 
tion in Albany, and I am informed testified to this, in one of the 
meetings. I am further informed, that he intended writing 3'ou, 
to see if you would hold a meeting in Troy. I state these facts, 
to show that the troubles in the churches in Troy have not been 
caused wholly by me as you think, and that the reliable faith peo- 
ple, even though ministers, have not been alienated from the 
work ; and I know I have rather advanced, than hindered the work 
there. I was informed that a large number of the audience you 
had in Albany, were Irom Troy and Lansingburgh. Last May, a 
young lady came here from Albany, accompanied by Mr. Kibbee 
(I think an Elder in the church she proposed joining) and the mat- 
ion of the House of Shelter, to be baptized by me, with the ap- 
proval of her Pastor, the Rev. Mr. Raymond. I baptized her, 
and was led to lay hands on her, and set her apart for service. 
She received a great blessing, and at that time accepted Christ as 
her 'physician ; and I understand she is now in 370ur institution. I 
refer to Miss Mary Holdridge. 

Regarding what 3'ou say on responsibility, and associating your- 
self with me, I would say, that, under the Lord, I assume all 
the responsibilities connected with my work, and feel that I am 
accountable to God as to how I meet these responsibilities. I 



248 LIFE SKETCHES OF 

have never asked you to associate yourself with me in m}^ work. 
My course has certainly not been fatal to my success as God's ser- 
vant, for since my healing I have seen thousands saved and healed, 
and have baptized 362, and cannot speak definitely of the large 
numbers that have been drawn nearer to Christ, and are to-day 
leading a holier life, and quite a number are successful in preach- 
ing the Gospel. I am conscious before God, I have not inter- 
fered with another's work, and can say with Paul, " I have not 
built on another man's foundation." We can, also, use the lan- 
guage of Paul, as contained in 2d Cor. x: 12, 13, 16, 18, " For 
not he that commendeth himself is approved, but whom the Lord 
commendeth." 

I do not question or look after your desires to do good, or lib- 
erty to pursue your course, but Jesus said : " I came not to send 
peace, but a sword." I am not jealous, my dear brother, because 
you have privileges, neither do I envy you. You refer to one city 
in particular, to which 3'ou have been urged to go. I have been 
also urged to go, perhaps to the same city, and told, that if I once 
got there, I could never get away ; I mean Chicago. There was 
one very marked case of healing, there, in answer to my prayer, 
while I was in Baltimore. I refer to my cousin, Rev. Lewis Ray- 
mond, a Baptist minister. Rev. Mr. Norton, whom you must 
know well, knows all about it. He wrote me three letters, urging 
me to go out to different conventions, in that section. 

You say, " I did not ask Mr. Elsey to have you leave, I begged 
him not to do so on any account, because of my opinion, and that 
if the Lord wanted you to work, and teach, with them, it was per- 
fectly proper for you to do so, and understand, that we were not 
responsible in any way for the work, but not in any measure hin- 
dering or opposing it." My brother, how can I understand this 
statement, when I place it with the following, in your letter to 
Bro. Elsey, " I am deeply pained to find that you have, contrary 
to the most earnest counsel of myself and Dr. Cookman, become 
identified with Mr. Raymond." Here seems a very plain contra^ 
diction. 

Mr. Elsey, when he handed me your letter, said, " I am very 
sorry for this. Bro. Raymond you have been doing a good work 
here, and we have been pleased with it, but you see by the letter, 
that Bros. Simpson and Cookman will withdraw fellowship from 
us, if you stay here." 



ELDER W. G. RAYMOND. 249 

Since then he (Bro. Elsey) speaks of both, and to me, in the 
warmest terms of Christian love. Regarding my labors, when I 
went there, I found the work all broken up, and most of the peo- 
ple drawn away, by one of your students, Bro. Philips ; so far as 
I know, there was the kindest feeling between Bro. Philips and 
me, though I think he made a mistake in the manner of leaving 
there. While I was there, the congregation steadilj' increased ; 
quite a number were saved, and we held grove meetings and I 
baptized nearlj- every Sabbath while there, and there were some 
very remarkable cases of healing ; four cancer cases. At the time 
I resigned, Prof. George was there, and he said to me, that as 
nearly as he could learn, I had done as much in Jersey City, for 
the time I had labored there, as all the churches in the citj-, and I 
am confident, that working together with the Lord, there have 
been as remarkable cases of healing under my hands, as could be 
found in the city of New York. To God be all the glory. 

I left the Chapel without any excitement, and standing as I 
have since, between the two fires, of the Jackson's and Hancock's 
on the one side, and yours on the other side, 3'ou cannot find that 
I have been involved in, or meddled with, any of the troubles, but 
have quietly attended to the work God has given me, and let 
others alone. 

Now, my dear brother, I do not wish to wound 3'our feelings, 
but I want you to look at the man 3'ou did recommend to the 
Elseys, to take my place, and consider whether it might not bd 
indeed fatal (to your ministry), to associate yourself with such a 
man. Do 3^ou know that in that trouble Bro. Else}' was involved 
not less than $1200? But that was a trifling loss, compared to 
the loss the faith cause sustained, in having such a scoundrel come 
before the public representing it. I know it has brought a great 
stain upon your work. 

Now the attack you made upon me in Jersey was the third, and 
I do hope, for Christ's sake, that it will be the last. In this epis- 
tle, I have necessarily been obliged to enlarge, to cover the scope 
of your letters and give satisfaction. I know it has been written 
in the Spirit, and love of the Gospel of Christ. 

In one of your attacks you referred to Bro. Heller in connec- 
tion with me, I have never had an}' very satisfactor}^ connection 
with Brother Heller, but I do know that he charges Brother 
Simpson with great injustice, and as the cause of his present 



250 LIFE SKETCHES OF 

adverse circumstances. I have prayed much, for grace and 
wisdom, in writing this letter, and I shall pra}^ for you to have 
patience and grace in reading it, hoping that after this we shall 
understand each other better, and be more in sympathy with each 
other's work, for I certainly used to take great pleasure in attend- 
ing your meetings. 

Yours in Christ Jesus, W. G. Raymond. 

P. S. — I ought to have stated that your letter was an open let- 
ter when it reached me, the end of the envelope being torn off. 
Done by mistake. Please direct any communication for me, to 

W. G. Raymond, 
42, 5th Ave., Lansingburgh, New York. 



Chelsea, Mass., August 19, 1891. 
I wish to give a few reasons why I believe I was moved to pub- 
lish these letters in my book. w. g. r. 

This Prof. George was sent to preach in Elsey Chapel on the 
Lord's day, and, without consulting me, took charge of the reli- 
gious services not calling on me, in any way whatever. At the 
close of the afternoon service ho said to me, " I didn't know that 
you were Pastor of the Church, or I shouldn't have come." This 
Prof. George was teacher in the Simpson College, for some time, 
and was considered a great theologian and sermonizer. The last 
that I heard of him, he was under a great cloud, but I hope and 
pray that God has had mercy upon him. I then resigned that 
night. The next student that he sent was a Dr. Simpson, if my 
memory serves me ; I don't think that he was any benefit to the 
building up of the cause of Christ there. 

About four years ago, I went from Springfield, Mass., where I 
was then laboring, with good purpose, and with the advice of some 
of our best workers, to attend Dr. Simpson's Faith Convention, 
with a desire to confer with him, and to correct his misunder- 
standing of my position ; he seemed glad to see me, and threw 
his arms over my shoulder sajdng, ''God bless our brother Ray- 
mond," and called on me to pray in the meeting. I told him, I 
wanted him to assign me a place where I could stop during the 
convention ; they sent me to a lady, who kept a boarding-house, 
not far away, where I remained one night, I asked her if she did 



ELDEE W. G. RAYMOND. 251 

mot attend the convention, or Dr. Simpson's meetings? She said, 
*' No, I wouldn't be guilty of such a thing, if you want to know 
anything about it, go over (giving me the number and street), and 
see one of the Deacons, and he will tell you without asking any 
leading questions." I said, " no, I did not come to this conven- 
tion for any such purpose." " In the morning I asked Brother Funk 
if he would not assign me another place. The next day I offered 
to pay the landlad}^ my bill. She said, " no, you have taken a 
religious interest in mj^ family, and I shall not charge you any- 
thing." Just as 1 was leaving, I was moved to hand to the lady 
what I thought would be right, to pay her, with the request, that 
she would hand it to the landlady, and I reported the case to Bro- 
ther Funk, who said he would see Brother Simpson. That after- 
noon I saw Brother Simpson, and asked him if he would have a 
few minutes* interview with me ; he said, " 3'es, as quick as I come 
back from the other room." I was juat in front of the desk, and 
remained there until he returned (it was after the close of the 
afternoon service), he came back, within a few feet of me, and 
passed over the orchestra, on the other side, and I met him no 
more during the convention. As I wished to hear Miss Carrie 
Judd, who was to speak that night, I went to Brother Funk again, 
and told him I would have to go back to Springfield, unless a place 
was provided, as I was not acquainted in that part of the city. He 
said, " I will see Dr. Simpson." In a few moments he did see 
him, and spoke with him, but he did not come near me after that, 
and I was compelled to go to the cars, or stay out on the street, 
as I did not have sufficient money with me to go to a first-class 
hotel in that part of the city. I was then obliged to take a late 
train, which brought me to Springfield, Mass., at a late hour of 
the night. I then had two or three miles to walk, as the street 
cars had stopped running for the night. Not being very well 
acquainted in the city, I got on the wrong street, (seeing no one 
to inquire of), and went eight or ten squares out of mj^ way ; then 
had to return, and when I finally reached Sisters Orpha and Rosa's 
Faith Home, much fatigued and supperless, it was nearly daylight. 
God only knows the sorrow of heart and the many tears I shed 
that night. But during my fastings and prayers I believe I for- 
gave my Brother, yet it had the effect to alienate me from 
conventions that are run by a ring, the same as done by 
politicians. 



252 LIFE SKETCHES OF 

When I commenced my meetings in Chelsea, nearly all of the 
Alliance People worked with me, and continued to do so, until it 
had been reported to Dr. Simpson. I do not say that he interfered, 
but Brother Rider did, and sent a very sharp letter, receiving a 
still sharper one in return. Many of the Alliance People have 
since withdrawn, and from their misrepresentations have done my 
work much injustice ; but they have suffered more than I. For 
ten months I have held from eight to ten meetings a week right in 
the Hall. They (the Alliance people) teach Divine healing but 
act human. I teach Faith healing, and witness the fruits of the 
Divine power. " Beware ye of the leaven of the Pharisees, which is 
hypocrisy. For there is nothing covered, that shall not be revealed ; 
neither hid, that shall not be known. Therefore, Whatsoever 3'e 
have spoken in darkness, shall be heard in the light ; And that 
which 3'e have spoken in the ear in closets shall be proclaimed on 
the housetops. And I say unto you my friends, be not afraid of 
them that kill the body, and after that, have no more, that they 
can do. But I will forewarn you whom ye shall fear ; Fear him 
[God] which after he hath killed hath power to cast into hell : yea, 
I say unto you, Fear him " [God]. Luke xii : 1-5. " This day, 
is this scripture fulfilled in your ears." Luke iv : 21. 



I was praying in Sister Musgrove's Faith Home in Lansing 
burgh, N. Y., at 12 o'clock, Friday night, the hour in which this 
sister was healed, and also, the night previous. 

W. G. Raymond. 

Metamora, Ohio, June 3, 1887. 
Brother Raymond : 

This is just 12 o'clock at night, sister Hallott was healed 
instantaneoiisly, and she is at present walking the floor praising 
God. She stepped out doors as she has not for months. She 
rose to have her bed made, and walked to her bed she looked at 
me, and saying she was stronger, I said can you walk out here? 
She came out, I sang "He laid his hand on me and heals me, 
and bids me be every whit whole." She shouted, I am healed en- 
tirely. She took up her bed and walked, and is still rejoicing in 



ELDER W. G. RAYMOND. 253 

Jesus. Please publish this, this is at the end of Friday, the 
day she fasted with Sister Ries^ the answer came before the man 
of God prayed, perhaps you were praying then ; let us know if you 
were praying before 12 o'clock on Friday night. Glorious it was 
to see the sister in the morning dressed, praising God. Saturday 
we thought we would turn into a Thanksgiving day, a day of 
thanking God for answering prayer. Let us hear from you 
again, we desire to donate to you in honor of that Master that 
hears and answers prayer. Soon as we can we will remember 
what we have said before God in helping you to carry on so good 
an institution. Sister Mary Jeffery. 



SALVATION FREE. 
ELSEY MEMORIAL CHAPEL, 

JeWETT & MONTICELLO AVE. 

Revival Services. 
Sunday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday Evenings, at 7.30. 

Order of Services. 

Sunday School, 9.30 a. m. Preaching, 11 a. m., 3 and 7.30 p. m. 

Testimony on Holiness and Divine Healing, Thursday, 3 p. m. 

Preaching every Sunday at Baptism Ground, at 3 p. m. 
Week Nights, 8 p. m. 

Interest Increasing, 

Work Deepening, 

Blessings Multiplying. 

bring your sick to the chapel. 

Seek ye the Lord while He may be found. Call upon Him while 

He is near. Isa. Iv: 6. 

Services conducted by the Pastor, Rev. Elder Raymond. 

Seats Free. All Welcome. 
No Collection on Week Nights. Come with us and the Lord will 

do thee good. 



254 



LIFE SKETCHES OF 



SJiAD ScJfiAC^f\EL^/ SpECl/KLT/. 




Nos.AS.Zfl.9 & lO'WEST WASHINGTON/MABKK 



New York, Oct. 30, 1888. 
W. G. Raymond, 

My Dear Brother: — Yours of the 26th came duly to hand. In 
reply would say I am pleased to hear you have had a pleasant 
time since you left Jersey City. I see by your letter you have 
built the altar at Beulah land, and had a precious waiting on the 
Lord., Praise the Lord. I have not heard from your daughter 
Mary since you left the City, but I know the Lord is with her ; 
God bless her. I have had the best of meetings in the Church 
since I saw you last. The Lord has blessed my soul. I have tried 
to live very near him, ...... and I 

am looking for a good blessed work in Jersey City. The light- 
house on the hill cannot be hid. Praise the Lord ! My family 
are all well and giving God the glory every day. We all send our 
best regards and God's blessing to be with you. As to your 
things they are all in the place you left them ; in my house, and 
they can remain there till your wish to take them away. 

May God bless you is my prayer. Yours in Christ, 





ELDER W. G. RAYMOND. 255 

Mount Jewett, McKeen Co., Pa. 
Elder W. G. Raymond, 

My Dear Brother : — God has been giving us a gracious revival 
in Elsey Chapel and fifty-two souls have been converted. Of 
course with such a promiscuous audience a great number float off 
into other churches, but a goodlj^ number stay with us. We have 
a number that want to be baptized, and I have been praying the 
Lord that he would direct j'ou by his spirit to come our way. 
Should God's Spirit direct you to visit us, I am sure loving hearts 
would welcome you, for we all believe that an ordained man of 
Christ's Church should perform the Baptismal Ceremony. You 
will remember that you performed that ceremony for me. 

I trust God is blessing you in the work you are doing. And I 
pray for his continual blessing. Don't forget us in j'our prayers. 

Your Brother in Christ, J. D. Brewer. V^A^^^^i 

P. S. — I did go to Jersey City and baptize quite a number of 
the happy converts into the Church of God. w. g. r. 



Springfield, O., Aug. 9, 1886. 
Monday, 8.30, p. m. 
Rev. W. G. Raymond, Beulah Land Faith Home, Baltimore, Md., 

My DEAR Brother : — I have written a long letter to mj^ dear 
sister Sarah and one to my cousins Mr. and Mrs. W. S. Brock, of 
Washington City, to-da}^, and now close with a few lines to your 
own dear self. I received such a, good letter from my new " sis- 
ter " Bettie, and answered same by first mail, and trust the letter 
has reached you ere this. I so often imagine being with you all 
at the Home. How I longed to be there yesterday. But I felt 
the influence of your prayers. The dear Lord so wonderfully filled 
me at class meeting between 3 and 4 p. m. Oh dearly beloved 
still continue praying for us. We are anxious to receive all the 
dear Lord has in store for us, both for soul and body. As I said 
before, as far as I know we are perfectly willing — are now " as 
clay in the hands of the Potter." 

I mail you to-day a handkerchief of my wife's sister, Mrs. W. 
B. Edgar, who, with her husband, is making their home with us. 
She has been for some time troubled with severe headaches and 
pains in her stomach, etc. We will unite with you for her perfect 



256 LIFE SKETCHES OF 

healing. Her sister, Mrs. John Strain, of Hillsboro, O., will 
likely send you her handkerchief. She has great faith in this 
work. I did not learn Sister Mary's last name, always remember 
us to her and Alfred. Georgie speaks so often of each one. Will 
be glad to hear from any of you whenevei* you can find time to 
write. Pray that our healing may be complete^ and we may have 
complete victory over Satan in these bodies of ours. Ask the dear 
Lord to give us the gift of faith. Mrs. Brown and Georgie unite 
in love to all. Your saved Brother, J. J. Brown. 



Springfield, O., August 20, 1886. 

Friday, 9 a. m. 
Rev. W. G. Raymond, Baltimore, Md., 

Dearly Beloved : — Your precious letter of 18th inst. just received, 
and I hasten to answer it. We return the kind Christian greet- 
ing, praying like blessings upon all at the Home. Has sister Bet- 
tie written us since the handkerchief was sent? If so we have 
not received it as yet. Would be glad to hear from her. God 
bless you all in return for the prayers 3^ou offer up for us. God 
is doing a great work in my body as well as soul. Since 10.30 
p. M., July 29, at the Home in Baltimore, I have claimed the heal- 
ing of my body. Satan has attacked me often since my return 
here. Grace has enabled me to triumph thus far. I am asking 
the dear Lord to glorify himself in the complete healing of my 
body. I am claiming the promises. May the dear Lord lead you 
out in prayer for me, until all the work he designs in my healing 
may have been fully accomplished. I feel as " clay in the hands 
of the Potter." Oh dearly beloved^ may the dear \jOvdi make me all 
He would have me to be. How I wish I could see you all this morn- 
ing — have so much to talk about. The little tract Sister Sarah 
gave us, entitled the " Trial of our Faith," has been a great help 
to me. The case where the young lady was restored from blind- 
ness, and afterward became blind again, for three months, claim- 
ing she was healed at first, and kept on claiming^ all during the three 
months. Oh, such a faith — ma}' the dear Lord give us such a 
precious gift. If it would be to the Glory of God, I desire the 
gifts of Faith, Casting out Devils, Healing and Power to rebuke 
the Devil, If you are lead, ask the dear Lord to give me such 
gifts as it would be to his glory for me to have. 

How rejoiced I am to hear of your good meetings and the many 
precious souls saved. How much Sister Mar}- has to praise God 



ELDER W. G. RAYMOND. 257 

for. Oh that she may be the instrument of leading many souls to 
Christ. We would love dearly to be with you when the Photo of 
the Home is taken, but the Lord has work for us to do here — We 
are trusting Ids leading in all things. Thanks for the promises 
sent. I am more and more conscious of the fact that the mighty 
hand of God is leading me and is beneath me. The Lord has not 
given me the means to assist you in the purchase of the Home. 
It seems to me he has another way provided, and in his own good 
time will bring it to pass. Praise the Lord for the way he is lead- 
ing dear Alfred — may he be a great power for good is our praj^er. 
Mrs. Brown's faith is becoming stronger and stronger — may God 
help her to claim fuUy all he has in store for her. The handker- 
chief we received and upon opening it I felt the power all through 
my hand. It has been used as directed, but I fear the faith of the 
party is not strong enough to claim the blessing. Pray for us 
daily — we are praying for you. Write us often. I must close 
for train is coming. All send love. Yours in Christ, 

J. J. Brovtn. 

This brother Brown was the owner of a large drug store in 
Springfield, Ohio, and previous to himself and wife coming to my 
Faith Home in Baltimore, ceased the sale of tobacco, cigars, 
liquors, etc. 

While under our hands, through the power of the Holy Ghost, 
he fell over and lay for about half an hour, shouting Glory to God ! 
And while laying our hands on his wife, (in her silks and satins,) 
a like power came upon her and she fell in the opposite direction 
and lay a similar length of time, praising God with an overflow of 
love. This occurred right in the meeting. Mrs. Ayer from Up- 
perville, Virginia, (sister of Brother Brown), who had been mirac- 
ulously healed on her own faith, was present at the time. 

One interesting little incident completed while they were at the 
Home, I will just relate. When Mrs. Ayer was about leaving 
Ohio for a home in Virginia, nearly thirty years ago, she had 
purposed to take a certain feather bed, but which the Doctor, (her 
brother), advised her not to do, thinking it would be lost on the 
way ; yet she was moved to take it, and in the Spring of 1886, she 
was moved to send it to me for my comfort at the Faith Home, 
and during the week that Brother Brown and wife spent with me 
there, they had the pleasure of sleeping on it. Hallelujah to the 
Lamb ! w. g. r. 

17 



258 LIFE SKETCHES OF 

Lawrence, June 26, 1891, 
3 Jackson Court. 

My Dear and Reverend Sir: — I hear that in some way the im- 
pression in Chelsea is, that I have been very ill. 

For one day I did have excruciating pain in the bowels, but it 
was so different from what it used to be, I at once recognized as the 
enemy attacking the body from the outside — but the pain lasted 
all day, but at evening time it was light. God delivered for His dear 
Son's sake. I was not disturbed, but felt I was healed all the 
same. It was a Father's loving hand drawing His child into a 
closer relationship. I felt I had strayed, and He saw that was best. 
I praised Him at night, and the pain left, and our meeting was a 
praise service, for I sent for two friends to come in and pray with 
me. I went to Saratoga the 1st of June and returned the 18th. I 
had a pleasant visit — but the enemj' did attack the body, but 
praise His name, he does not frighten me, I am healed. God says 
it, and now my friends think my form is changing. 1 am not so 
large, and I know there is life where there was death. I sometimes 
wish I could fall down and kiss his feet in adoring praise. I have 
not forgotten Mrs. Hastings' prayer for me, to be "a watered gar- 
den." My sister. Miss Dodge, was much better. She is not here now. 
I have desired to visit Chelsea, but hitherto the Lord has hindered. 

I remember you in my morning prayer. 

Yours in Him, (Mrs.) L. M. Whittemore. 



72 Cherry St., Fall River, Mass., 

April 30, 1891. 
Rev. Mr. Raymond, 

Dear Sir : — I have so often heard of your marvelous work in 
behalf of the suffering that I went to Chelsea hoping to find you 
at home, and perhaps get relief from a chronic trouble of some- 
what long standing. I was not fortunate in finding you. 

Would it be possible for you to make an appointment with me 
for Saturday? Saturday and Sunday are the only days I shall be 
in Boston, and if you could meet me either of those days I should 
consider it a great favor. 

If it is possible to see me will you be so kind as to drop me a 
line at Tappan Street, Roslindale, Mass., so I can get it Friday 
night or Saturday morning. Very respectfully, 

Elizabeth P. Rollins. 



ELDER W. G. RAYMOND. 259 

Taunton, Mass., 31 Mason St., 
May 4, 1891. 
Elder Raymond, Chelsea, Mass., 

Dear Sir : — I have this day heard (through a friend) of your 
wonderful cures of diseases by prayer and anointing, and have 
been induced to write you and find out when you are to begin your 
meetings again, or when I could see you. My trouble is in my 
neck and back of head. My head is drawn down so that my chin 
rests on my breast. I have been to see all kinds of Doctors and 
Treatments, but no good. I have been in the Massachusetts Gen- 
eral Hospital, but they could do nothing but experiment as they 
never had a case like mine, but I do not like to give up yet, for I 
believe that God is able to straighten me up, and you might be 
the agent through which he would do it. Yours trulj^, 

Fred M. Haskins, 
Druggist and Pharmacist. 



West Somerville, May 4, 1891. 
Mr. Raymond, 

Dear Sir : — A lady in Chelsea wrote to me about you being a 
doctor for deafness. I have been deaf four years, my age twenty. 
Deafness was caused by a cold ; if you think you could help me, 
please send me a line, and tell me what day, and what hour, I 
could see you. Address, Miss Annie E. Kelley, 

206 Holland St., West Somerville, Mass, 



Lawrence, April 1st. 
Dear Elder Raymond: — I have a favor to ask of you. Friday 
morning, if pleasant, some friends of mine will go to Chelsea, 
reaching there about twenty minutes past ten. Could you see 
them, so they could leave hy Jwelve o'clock, to return to Boston. 
My friend, Mrs. Cook, goes for the loss of eyesight. I pray that 
God will bless her. Mrs. Benson, who went with me to see you, 
feels she received healing from the trouble she has had with her 
heart. Praise the dear Lord. Should the day prove stormy they 
will go some other day (D. V.). Yours in Christ, 

L. M. Whettemore. 



260 LIFE SKETCHES OF 

5 Winslow Street, 
Mr. Raymond, Worcester, Feb. 23, 1891. 

Dear Brother: — I had hoped to see you before this. You 
remember I met you at Mrs. Sawyer's just out of Worcester, and 
expected you would come to my house for a night, that you might 
see a paral^^tic. It is a very pitiable case. He has been partially 
healed or rather he has been raised up so he is around in his roll- 
ing chair, but for months there is no further progress. If ever 
lihere was a case, that Jesus would have compassion on, it is his. 
A family dependent on him for support, poor, depressed, dis- 
couraged, and crushed by the seeming defeat of his faith in God 
concerning the matter. A little company of us go there, week 
after week, to comfort him and beseech God to do the work, but 
we do not get the power to cast out the awful devil that is binding 
Mm. O do come for a day, if no longer, as soon as possible. I 
feel as if he demands immediate attention. I live at No. 5 Win- 
slow Street, Worcester, Mass. I will meet you any time at the 
depot, or if you come without my knowing, take a car. Blue West 
Side at depot, and it will leave you at Winslow Street. Mr. Dar- 
rell, the sick man, lives at 64 Fresco tt Street. You can be taken 
care of at my house. I hope to see you soon. With respect, 

Mrs. F. a. Jaques. 



Cambridgeport, Mass., May 11, 1891 
Elder Raymond, 

Dear Sir: — I have a little boy, six years of age, who has 
Deen partially paralyzed from his birth. Dr. James Futnam, (of 
Marlborough St., Boston,) thinks that not breathing for some time 
after he was born, and when he did so, broke a small blood vessel 
in his brain, and the clot of blood ran down in the nerves of motion. 
He is bright, has a good intellect. Some friends who are 
acquainted vrith you at Harvard M. E. Church, wished that 
you could see our boy. Will you please make an appointment 
when we can call on you, and oblige. Yours truly, 

Henry C. Hackett. 



Ennis, Texas, April 12, 1887. 
jMr. W. G. Raymond, 

Dear Brother in Christ : — The Lord be praised for your good 
helpful letter. Though so long unanswered I assure you, it was 
appreciated. Circumstances unavoidable prevented my replying 



ELDER W. G. RAYMOND. 261 

earlier. I want to say to the glory of God that several requests 
for prayers, which I sent you, have been answered, especially 
deliverance " of one from a great trial." The Lord heard and 
wonderfully delivered. O, I praise God for '* Faith Homes " and 
a people of faith and prayer. How many times I have been 
helped and delivered from things that seemed impossible to be 
done through the prayers of dear ones in " Faith Homes." You 
know there is a power in united prayer ; and sometimes it seems 
when the combined powers of evil array themselves against one, 
it takes combined prayer and faith to overcome. Now I ask your 
prayers in the Faith Home for myself. I have been an invalid for 
many years. Three years ago I was healed in answer to the 
praj^er of a brother in Brooklj-n, N. Y., and was well for six 
months, but not understanding the way of faith clearly or the 
proper care of the body, my health failed and I have since been 
gradually going down, often have been at death's door. I feel 
that if I had some one here who was strong in the faith, with 
their counsel and faith I could get well, and that is why I write 
now about myself. I have enjoyed much of the Lord's presence 
in my illness, until the last few months ; when sometimes the 
powers of evil seem to combine and array themselves against body 
and soul and spirit. I have a complication of diseases that have 
baffled the skill of physicians and is beyond the reach of medi- 
cine. I am willing to suffer if that will glorify God most ; but it 
seems to me I would glorify him more, if well. I have many other 
requests I wish you would please present before the Lord. One 
is, for a dear sister in Christ, who is trying to start a " Faith 
Home " in Texas, and has much opposition, and but little encour- 
agement, and for her husband, that he may be sanctified and help 
her in the work, and that her children may soon be saved. That 
the cause of Temperance prevail in this state at the coming elec- 
tion. That the cause of holiness be revived all over Texas, this 
year. That two be delivered from a trouble, and know what to 
do, and where to go. That three very wicked backsliders be soon 
reclaimed. That the appetite for strong drink be taken awa}^ from 
three, and their souls soon be brought back to God. That five 
souls be quickened, and hunger and thirst and be filled " with all 
the fullness of God." That four realize that they are fully united 
to Christ, and be filled with the Bridal Spirit, ready for the com- 
ing of the Lord. My dear mother, aged sixt3'-five years, asks you 



262 LIFE SKETCHES OF 

to pray that she may be healed of catarrh, rheumatism, and a 
cough of long standing, and that her soul be filled with the life 
and power of God, and for the healing of four others with 
catarrh, and two of asthma. That two others be healed of chronic 
diseases. That a minister in a distant state, who has the " gift of 
healing," be filled continually with the Holy Ghost. That one be 
cured of nervous spinal disease, and have good natural sleep. 
Please ask the Lord to give us rain if His will, we shall have a 
famine if we do not have rain soon. Please pray for three broth- 
ers and three sisters in the Lord that they may be kept from fanat- 
icism. I have many other requests too tedious to name but not too 
many for our God to hear and answer. Please ask him about 
them. Excuse me for writing so much, but I do want the 
*' anointing that abides" continually, for soul, body, and spirit, 
that I may do a little something for the dear Lord, who has done 
so much for me. I pray that you and those with you may be won- 
derfully blessed and anointed of the Lord, for the work to which 
you are called ; and supply all your need according to his riches 
in glory by Christ Jesus. Amen. Your sister in Him. 

Maggie Beard. 



JEHOVAH ROPHI, (The Lord our Healer.) 

"Is there anything too hard for the Lord ?" 

' 'Whether is easier, to say. Thy sins be forgiven thee ; or to say, 
Rise up and walk. But, that ye may know that the son of man 
hath power on earth to forgive sins : (He said unto the sick of 
the palsy,) I say unto thee, Arise and take up thy couch and go 
into thine house. And immediately he rose up before them and 
took up that whereon he la}-, and departed to his own house, glo- 
rifying God."— X?<fce v : 23-25. 

Oh, bless the Lord ! I know, that he has the same power to-day 
that He had then, although my sins were many and I believe I 
was possessed of more devils than Mary Magdalene — yet, when I 
was willing to cast myself at Jesus' feet, ''He made me every whit 
whole." It is three years and nearly nine months since I cast 
myself at Jesus' feet, and I have been sitting there ever since. 
Oh, what joy, peace and happiness He has given me. 



ELDER W. G. RAYMOND. 263 

The day I came to him, He asked me if I would be willing to go 
to India, Asia or Africa if He called me. I said "yes. Lord." 
Then He said, "Would you be willing to sacrifice 3'our body for 
me, if needs be." I said "Yes, Lord." Then he said, "Would 
you be willing to go in ; it makes no difference how contagious the 
disease might be, believing I would bring you out safely ?" I said 
"Yes, Lord." Then came the test. He said again, "Would you 
be willing to leave husband, and all you have of this world's 
goods and follow me if I should call you .?" 

Then the Devil said : "There ! you cannot do that ! " 

Oh, I cannot describe the darkness of that moment. For the 
burden seemed so heavy that I could not bear it, and being in an 
agony so great, it seemed I never could arise up again, unless I 
surrendered my will to him. Then I cried, "Lord, take me as I 
am ; make me as I am ; make me just what Thou would'st have me 
be ; only take this load away and I will leave all and follow Thee." 

Oh, what a change in an instant. There was ;\ power went 
through me of which my tongue has never been abie to telL I 
sprang from my knees, shouting and praising God, and I believe 
if I had known of God's power to heal the bod3^ and claimed it 
then, I would have been saved and healed at the same time, for I 
was healed of dyspepsia right there. I was in the habit of smok- 
ing tobacco for years, especially after eating, and thought I could 
not do without my pipe. But from that moment to this, nothing 
is so offensive as tobacco, and I believe he took everything out of 
me then and there, except the sickness of which I had suffered so 
long, but believe if I had claimed that I was healed, that the Lord 
would have healed me of all my diseases. 

But the Lord led me to Baltimore to see my father who had 
been wonderfully healed of ten years invalidism at that time. He 
having a Faith Home there, my father — Elder W. G. Raymond, — 
Mary Kerkness and Minnie Addicks laid hands upon my head and 
prayed for me, and father anointed mj^ forehead with oil in the 
name of the Lord. Then father said : "In the name of Jesus you 
are healed from 'the crown of your head to the soles of your 
feet,' and extremities of your fingers." 

I never for a moment doubted, but believed that the Lord had 
finished the work, although I had so many diseases. Four doc- 
tors had said I never could get well again ; no power on earth 
could save me. 



264 LIFE SKETCHES OF 

I had had a tumor removed six years before, by doctors, who all 
gave me up to die. But the Dear Lord raised me up at that time, 
for father and sister Perry had prayed the Lord to raise me up, 
and He answered their pra^^ers. But I was not healed, and grew 
worse instead of better. The last time, I went to see Dr. Camp- 
bell, of Buffalo, before the Lord healed me. He said there was 
no hope for me, for I had something more serious than the tumor. 
I asked him what it was, but he was unwilling to tell me. But I 
knew what it was : it was a cancer. 

Having had heart disease from childhood, I was unable to take 
chloroform at the removal of the tumor, being liable to die any 
moment, so was obliged to take ether — three-quarters of a pound. 

After the removal of the tumor, malaria fever set in and abscesses 
formed on the liver and broke inwardly, but the Lord raised me up 
in answer to prayers that were offered to him at that time. 

The doctors advised me to leave the water, as my husband was 
Captain of a boat and is now Captain of the "Beulah Land." I 
was with him on the water all the time. As they would give me no 
more medicine for it, saying it would do no good, I went and 
stayed on land eight months, but, on my return to the boat was 
worse than before, and in addition to that I had kidney and liver 
trouble. Oh, how I did suffer at times. Dropsy also set in and I 
had frequent nervous, sick headaches and trouble with neuralgia 
in mv arms and limbs, and when I knelt or bent down 1 could not 
get up unless I took hold of something and pulled myself up. 
The pain in my knee joints would cause me to cry out. My e3'ea 
were so bad that I was obliged to wear glasses and then could not 
read long at a time. 

But Glory to His Name ! — all m}^ diseases are gone. As to my 
eyes, I can read the finest print by lamplight — I can see just as 
well as when a child, although I am nearly forty-six years old, and 
I have not taken one drop of medicine since the Dear Lord healed 
me, nor been laid by one day. Whatever my work has been the 
Lord has given me strength to do it, moment by moment. I claim 
the promise every morning, "As my day so shall my strength be," 
and I believe when I ask that I receive, and that promise has 
never failed me yet. Satan has done his best to overthrow me at 
times, but when the Lord calls me to do anything for Him, I am 
going to start, though I go to Heaven on the way, and many 
times it would seem, if I looked at feelings, impossible for me to 



ELDER W. G. RAYMOND. 265 

do it. But when I look to Jesus and His blessed word — Is there 
anj'thing too hard for the Lord to do ? What wonderful blessings 
he gives me, by walking out by faith and not feelings. Can we 
limit the Lord's strength when we have His promises to walk out on ? 

Oh, let us dear Christian leaders, hold up the lights higher and 
not doubt One promise more than another ; but let the Lord come 
unto these mortal bodies and dwell — for He says, "Ye are the 
temple of the Holy Ghost." I hope these words may strengthen 
some of the weak ones, and be the means of other sick and 
afflicted ones taking Jesus as their Physician and Saviour. 

If any one wishes to write to me or to have me pray for them, 
they can address me as follows : 

Mrs. Mary Goldsmith, 

42 Fifth Avenue, Lansingburgh, N. Y. 



Cowden, Shelby Co., Illinois, 
June 11, 1887. 

Rev. W. G. Raymond: — In the Vanguard^ May 15th, I read 
your experience of healing, and was led of the Lord to write to 
you in behalf of my niece, asking you to pray for her ; she is eight 
years old and has been afflicted with what the physicians call epi- 
lepsy ever since she was two 3'ears old. Her name is Katie Mc- 
Clanahan. Hoping to hear from you soon, I am sanctified and kept 
by power Divine. Mollie Kesler. 



Madison, Fla., March 1, 1885. 
Rev. W. G. Raymond, 

1522 14th St., N. W., Washington, D. C, 
My Dear Brother : — I was very agreeably surprised by receiving 
such a kind and entertaining letter from you, I naturally supposed, 
— your correspondence being large, that if you prayed for me, 
that was all I had a right to expect : but you have done more ; 
you have considered my case — you have thought of me — you 
have advised me, and you have written me ; for all this I pray that 
God will reward you. As I have asked you to present my case to 
the great Physician, I think it best for you to know my surround- 
ings and the peculiar circumstances over which I have no control. 



266 LIFE SKETCHES OF 

I was raised a Methodist ; my father a minister, my mother very 
pious. I entered the Confederate army when quite young, and 
went astray as usual — joined the Methodist church in 1873 ; have 
been an official member ever since. In 1878 God in an unusual 
manner showed me that while I was to the world a model christian, 
I fell far short of the pure article, in his sight ; and that the ma- 
jority of church members here were in the same conditon. It was 
impressed upon me to seek that faith which was delivered to the 
saints, that faith which Christ said would remove mountains. I 
prayed day and night, for three years ; I sought spiritual aid from 
our ministers ; but they thought me either presumptuous or cranky, 
to aspire to such faith, they told me the days of miracles were over, 
that the faith spoken of referred to the disciples alone ; and that 
Satan was sifting me as wheat. In our church papers I could find 
nothing encouraging me to proceed. Now and then I would see 
some small ridiculing paragraph in the secular papers about the 
Faith cures ; but nothing definite. There is no one of my 
acquaintance that believes in Faith cures, and Holiness. *' They 
have the form of godliness but deny the power thereof." Our 
pastor sent here, to preach for us this year, resigned, because his 
salary was not large enough. He thinks he can make more money 
in the practice of medicine than as Christ's shepherd. The pooi 
classes in this country, never hear the gospel; their spiritual inter- 
est is overlooked b}^ their more opulent neighbors — but I am 
digressing — I cannot be satisfied with my condition, until I can 
olaim that faith which was delivered to the saints. I know that 
God has work for me to do, but I am weak, and sinful, and cannot 
expect to be an acceptable servant until I am purified. I need 
your most fervent prayers^ for the healing of my soul. I believe 
God's word, I believe he is willing, I believe in the prayers of the 
righteous, I have no conflicting desires that I am aware of; but 
the fault must be in me, as there are wa3'S that seemeth right to a 
man that may lead him to destruction. I noticed the date of yours 
and Sister Perry's prayers in my behalf, was the 17th of Feb. 
Ever since the 18th of Feb. I have felt unaccountably depressed in 
spirit ; I fast and pray every Friday morning. Will you remem- 
ber me then? There is a poor man living on my plantation who 
has a large family to support, who is afflicted with a cancer; he has 
tried several eminent physicians, who have failed to relieve him, 
— he has no hope of being cured by medicine. I mentioned to 



ELDER W. G. RAYMOND. 267 

him what Christ was doing through you, and otheis, and he told 
me that God was able and willing to heal him, if he could get 
some one to pray for him that had the true faith ; and requested 
me to ask you to pray for his cancer to be removed. It is a nota- 
ble case, and would do more towards destroying skepticism, by 
being healed, than any thing I know of. I hope you will not think 
me troublesome, I will close this lengthy letter. If you can spare 
the time, would be glad to hear from you. Yours truly, 

Thomas A. Hall. 



Georgetown, D. C, May 3, 1886. 
W. G. Raymond, 

Dear Sir : — I am instructed to say in answer to your request 
for j'our letter to join another church, that there is a clause in our 
by-laws that prohibits the granting of letters to any one that is not 
in good standing in the church, and you having promised the 
church twelve dollars for the support of the same last year's 
expenses and having failed to comply with that promise j'ou cer- 
tainly are not m good standing in the church, and I am further 
instructed to say that when you make yourself in good standing 
in the church that your request will be acted upon. Yours, etc. 

Jas. H. Fowler, 
2440 P St., West Washington. 

For one year I was associate pastor, with Dr. Lodge, in the 
Gay Street Baptist Church, I brought my letter from Fourteenth 
Street Baptist Church, where I was associated the j^ear previous 
with Dr. Lodge, and in each of these churches we had a glorious 
revival. I worked in the Sunday-school, — taught Bible-classes, 
and attended nearly all the meetings and prayer-meetings. I was 
obedient to the calls of the Pastor and of the church without any 
salary or compensation, and boarding myself, while my income 
would not amount to five dollars a week, always keeping up my 
dues while I was associate Pastor. After Dr. Lodge's health 
failed, I asked the privilege of holding a few meetings in the church, 
but it was not granted, Brother Lodge thinking it would not be 
best. I was then led to see that I would have to leave the church 
and Baptist denomination, if I ever accomplished anything in the 
faith work. Therefore, I rented a hall in the centre of Washing- 
ton, and continued meetings for four months, where many, were 



268 LIFE SKETCHES OP 

healed and gloriously saved. From there, I went down to the 
Eastern shore where many more were gloriously saved, and I bap- 
tized sixty-seven. When I again came back to the church, I heard 
nothing about any back dues, but I saw very clearly that they 
were not in sympathy with my faith healing and told them that I 
had thought of having my letter remain there, but observing the 
feeling manifested, I said I will call for my letter, as I wish to hand 
it in, to the Baptist Church in Baltimore. I did call for the letter 
soon after, and the above letter is the answer. After this, as I 
was stopping in Washington a few weeks, I was moved one Sun- 
day to go up to the church. They had a new Pastor, with whom 
I was not very well acquainted, and it was their communion sea- 
son. I did not take a seat in the body of the church, but one 
of the most elderly men in the church and a Deacon who had found 
the most fault with me in the meeting referred to above, passed 
the bread to me, which I accepted. When Deacon King came 
around with the wine he passed me ; I called his attention to it, 
when he replied, " You will understand it." I scraped the dust off 
from my feet, and they will meet it at the Bar of God, unless they 
have repented. w. g. r. 



I believe that I am moved to show the difference between an 
experience and a testimony. An experience is, according to Web- 
ster a practical acquaintance with any matter, by personal obser- 
vation or trial of it — repeated trial of a matter ; instruction sa 
gained; trial; proof; experiment. An experience, in a theolog- 
ical sense is to make a profession of religion, and to accept the theol- 
ogy as taught in that denomination. In the Catholic theology, they 
are born into the church and when christened , recognized ; then they 
receive absolution from the priest, and if they continue punctual 
in their attendance, paying their dues, it may then be said — they 
have made a good profession. And all other denominations, that 
have the mark of the beast — there is only a little variation from 
this rule. I thank God, that there are some professing Christians 
who believe in regeneration, in all these different denominations. 

An experience, under the law, is for a drunkard to stop drinking ^ 
and for a thief to stop stealing. A swearer to stop swearing. A 
liar, to stop lying. A back-biter, to keep his mouth shut. A 
perjured person to tell the truth, if there is a liability of being 



ELDER W. G. RAYMOND. 269 

exposed. A hypocrite must not assert too positively his salva- 
tion. An infidel must not express his convictions too strongly, 
except when he is talking with faith healers. A miser must con- 
ceal his cravings for money, in all public assemblies where there 
is money to be raised, to advance the denomination with which he 
is connected. This, among law-holiness people, would be their 
model of a good profession of religion. I believe all that class 
of people will be lost and go to hell, unless they are born again, 
of the Holy Ghost, and washed in the blood of the Lamb. 

The Bible definition of experience is limited. I call your atten- 
tion to Gen. XXX : 25-31 . Please read the 27th verse, " And Laban 
said unto him, I pray thee, if I have found favor in thine eyes, tarry ; 
for I have learned by experience that the Lord hath blessed me 
for thy sake." Eccl. i: 16, ''Yea, my heart had great experi- 
ence, of wisdom, and knowledge." You all know the line of 
Solomon's experience. Turn again lo Romans v : 3-5, and read, 
" And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also, knowing that 
tribulation worketh patience, and patience experience, and expe- 
rience hope ; and hope maketh not ashamed ; because the love of 
Ood is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost, which is 
given unto us." 

I have given you all the passages referred to in Cruden's 
Concordance. I now invite your attention to the word Testi- 
mony. Testimony, according to Webster — a solemn declara- 
tion, or affirmation, made to establish or prove some fact ; affirma- 
tion ; declaration ; open attestation ; profession ; witness ; proof ; 
manifestation. The points, you see, are strongly taken. The 
scripture definition, maybe found in Ex. xvi : 32-34, read 83rd, 
" And Moses said unto Aaron, Take a pot, and put an omer full 
of manna therein, and lay it up before the Lord, to be kept for 
your generations. As the Lord commanded Moses, so Aaron laid 
it up before the testimony," to be kept. Again, Ex. xxv : 16, "And 
thou shalt put into the ark, the testimony which I shall give thee." 
Also, ^a;. xxvii : 21, "Which is before the testimony." Also, 
Ex. XXX : 6, " And thou shalt. put it before the vail that is by 
the ark of the testimony before the mercy-seat, that is over the 
testimony. Where I will meet with thee." Also, Ex. xxxi : 18, 
" And he gave unto Moses, when he had made an end of com- 
muning with him upon Mount Sinai, two tables of testimony, 
tables of stone, written with the finger of God." Ex. xxxii : 15, 



270 LIFE SKETCHES OP 

16, " And Moses turned, and went down from the mount, and 
the two tables of the testimony were in his hand : the tables were 
written on both their sides ; on the one side and on the other were 
they written and the tables were the work of God, and the writing 
was the writing of God, graven upon the tables." Ex. xxxviii : 21, 
" This is the sum of the tabernacle, even of the tabernacle of 
TESTIMONY." Num. i '. 50, 53, " But thou shalt appoint the Le- 
vites over the tabernacle of testimony. But the Levites shall pitch 
round about the tabernacle of testimony." Num. ix:15, 16, 
'' And on the day that the tabernacle was reared up the cloud cov- 
ered the tabernacle, namely, the tent of the testimony, and at 
even there was upon the tabernacle as it were the appearance of 
fire until the morning." "So it was always: the cloud covered 
it by day, and, the appearance of fire by night." Num. xvii : 4, 
10, " And thou shalt lay them up in the tabernacle of the con- 
gregation before the testimonf, where I will meet with you. And 
the Lord said unto Moses, bring Aaron's rod again before the* tes- 
timony, to be kept for a token against the rebels ; and thou shalt 
quite take away their murmurings from me, that they die not." 
Ruth iv : 7, " A man plucked off his shoe, and gave it to his 
neighbour : and this was a testimony in Israel." 2 Kings xi : 12- 
16, " And he brought fourth the king's son, and put the crown 
upon him, and gave him the testimony, and they made him king, 
and anointed him ; and they clapped their hands, and said^ God 
save the king. And when Athaliah heard the noise of the guard, 
and of the people, she came to the people, into the temple of the 
Lord. And when she looked, behold, the king stood by a pillar, 
as the manner was, and the princes and the trumpeters by the 
king, and all the people of the land rejoiced, and blew with trum- 
pets : and Athaliah rent her clothes, and cried "Treason, treason." 
But Jehoiada the priest commanded the captains of hundreds, the 
officers of the hosts, and said unto them, have her forth without 
the ranges ; and him that folio weth her kill with the sword. For 
the priest had said, let her not be slain in the house of the Lord. 
And they laid hands on her ; and she went by the way by the 
which the horses came into the king's house : and there was she 
slain." Also, 2 Chron. xxiii : 11, "Then they brought out the 
king's son, and put upon him the crown, and gave him the testi- 
mony, and made him king. And Jehoiada and his sons anointed 
him, and said, God save the king." Psalms Ixxviii: 5, "For 



ELDER W. G. RAYMOND. 271 

he established a testimony in Jacob, and appointed a law in 
Israel." Psalm : cxix : 88, " Quicken me after thy loving kind- 
ness ; so shall I keep the testimony of thy mouth." Psalm 
cxxii : 4, " Whither the tribes go up, the tribes of the Lord unto 
the TESTIMONY of Isracl, to give thanks unto the name of the Lord." 
Isaiah viii : 16, 20, " Bind up the testimony, seal the law among 
m}^ disciples. To the law and to the testimony : if they speak 
not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them." 
Mat. viii : 4, " And Jesus said unto him, see thou tell no man ; 
but go thy wa}', show thyself to the priest, and offer the gift that 
Moses commanded for a testimony unto them." Also, Mark'i : 44^ 
Markvi: 11, " And whosoever shall not receive you, nor hear 
you, when ye depart hence, shake off the dust under your feet for 
a testimony against them. Verily I say unto you, it shall be more 
tolerable for Sodom and Gomorrah in the day of judgment, than 
for that city. Also, Luke v: 14, and Luke ix : 5. Again, Luke 
xxi : 12-15, 13th verse, " And it shall turn to you for a testi- 
mony. Settle it therefore in your hearts, not to meditate before 
what ye shall answer : For I will give you a mouth and wisdom, 
which all your adversaries shall not be able to gainsay nor resist." 
8t. John iii : 32, 33, " And what he hath seen and heard that he 
testifieth and no man receiveth his testimony. He that hath 
received his testimony hath set to his seal that God is true." St. 
John viii : 17, 18, '* It is also written in your law that the Testi- 
mony of two men is true. I am one that bear witness of myself,, 
and the Father that sent me beareth witness of me." St. John 
xxi: 24, "This is the disciple which testifieth of these things, 
and wrote these things : and we know that his testimony is true." 
Acts xiii : 22, 23, "And when he (Saul) had removed him he 
raised up unto them David to be their king ; to whom also he 
gave testimony, and said, I have found David the son of Jesse 
a man after mine own heart, which shall fulfil all my will. Of this 
man's seed hath God according to His promise raised unto Israel a 
Saviour, Jesus." Acts-siy: 3, "Long time therefore abode they, 
speaking boldly in the Lord which gave testimony unto the word 
of his grace and granted signs and wonders to be done by their 
hands." Acts xxii: 18, "And saw him saying unto me, 'Make 
haste and get thee quickly out of Jerusalem : for they will not 
receive thy testimony concerning me." 1 Cor. i: 6, "Even as 
the testimony of Christ was confirmed in you." 1 Cor. ii: 1^ 



272 LIFE SKETCHES OF 

*'And I brethren, when I came to you, came not with excellency 
of speech or of wisdom, declaring unto you the testimony of God." 
2 Cor. i; 12, ''For our rejoicing is this, the testimony of our con- 
science that in simplicity and Godly sincerity, not with fleshly wis- 
dom, but by the grace of God." 2 Thes, 1: 10, ^'Because our 
testimony among you was believed in that day." Heh. iii : 5, 
*'And Moses verily was faithful in all his house as a servant, for 
a testimony of those things which were to be spoken after." Heh. 
xi : 5, "By faith Enoch was translated that he should not see 
death ; and was not found because, God had translated him ; for 
before his translation he had this testimony that he pleased God." 
Itev. i: 2, 9, "Who bare record of the word of God, and of the 
testimony of Jesus Christ, I John who also am your brother, and 
companion in tribulation and in the kingdom and patience of Jesus 
Christ, was in the isle that is called Patmos, for the word of God 
and for the testimony of Jesus Christ." Rev. vi: 9, "And when 
he had opened the fifth seal, I saw under the altar the souls of them 
that were slain for the word of God and for the testimony which 
they held." Rev. xi : 7, "And when they shall have finished 
their testimony, the beast that ascendeth out of the bottomless pit, 
shall make war against them, and shall overcome them and kill 
them." Rev. xii : 11, 17, "And they overcame him by the blood 
of the Lamb, and by the word of their testimony, and they loved 
not their livesf\ unto the death. And the dragon was wroth with 
the woman, and went to make war with the remnant of her seed 
which keep the commandments of God, and have the testimony of 
Jesus Christ." Rev xv: 5, and after that I looked and behold, 
the temple of the tabernacle of the testimony in heaven was 
opened." Rev. xix : 10, And I fell at his feet to worship him. 
And he said unto me, 'See thou do it not : I am thy fellow ser- 
vant and of thy brethren that have the testimony of Jesus ; wor- 
ship God ! for the testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy." 

I wish to give my convictions, and leadings of the outlines of 
the literal reign of Christ, on earth, for one thousand years. 
Please read Rev. xx : 1-15, "And he laid hold on the dragon, 
that old serpent, which is the Devil, and Satan, and bound him a 
thousand years. And cast him into the bottomless pit, and shut 
him up, and set a seal upon him, that he should deceive the nations 
no more till the thousand years should be fulfilled : and after that 



ELDER W. G. RAYMOND. 273 

he must be loosed a little season. But the rest of the dead lived 
not again until the thousand years were finished. This is the first 
resurrection. Blessed and holy is he that hath part in the first 
resurrection : on such the second death hath no power, but they 
shall be priests of God and of Christ, and shall reign with him a 
thousand years. And when the thousand years are expired, Satan 
shall be loosed out of his prison. And shall go out to deceive the 
nations which are in the four quarters of the earth." I believe 
that the identical body with which Jesus ascended, will return, and 
remain on the earth, one thousand years ; and that he will sit on 
the throne of David, — King over all the earth with his chosen 
bride." Read Acts i: 9-11, "And when he had spoken these 
things, while they beheld, he was taken up ; and a cloud received 
him out of their sight. And while they looked steadfastly toward 
heaven as he went up, behold two men stood b}- them in white 
apparel : Which also said, Ye men of Galilee, why stand ye gaz- 
ing up into heaven? this same Jesus, which is taken up from 3'ou 
into heaven, shall so come in like manner as ye have seen him go 
into heaven." I can't say that the scars will be on that glorified 
body ; but they certainl}- were open when Thomas was requested 
to thrust his hands into his side, and his fingers into the prints of 
the nails. His body, surely was bleeding and torn, when I saw it 
eight years ago last October at Beulah Land, in the District of 
Columbia. (See plate 1, p.) For further evidence of his coming 
on Mount Olivet, read Zecharia xiv : 4, " And his feet shall stand 
in that day upon the Mount of Olives, which is before Jerusa- 
lem on the east, and the Mount of Olives, shall cleave in the midst 
thereof, toward the east, and toward the west, and there shall 
be a ver}' great vallej^, and half of the mountain, shall remove 
toward the north, and half of it toward the south. And ye shall 
flee to the valley of the mountains, for the valley of the mountains 
shall reach unto Azal : yea, ye shall flee like as ye fled from be- 
fore the earthquake in the days of Uzziah, king of Judah : and 
the Lord my God shall come and all the saints with thee. And 
it shall come to pass in that day, that the light shall not be clear, 
nor dark. But it shall be one day which shall be known to the 
Lord, not day, nor night ; but it shall come to pass, that at even- 
ing-time it shall be light. And it shall be in that day, that living 
waters shall go out from Jerusalem ; half of them toward the for- 
mer sea, and half of them toward the hinder sea ; in summer and 
18 



274 LIFE SKETCHES OF 

in winter shall it be." Now comes the verse that proves his King- 
ship : " And the lord shall be King over all the earth : in that day 
shall there be one Lord, and his name one." 

Now comes the evidence of the leveling process, — a wonderful 
exhibition of engineering. Verse 10, " All the land shall be 
turned as a plain, from Geba to Rimmon, south of Jerusalem ; and 
it shall be lifted up, and inhabited in her place, from Benjamin's 
gate unto the place of tlie first gate, unto the corner gate, and 
from the tower of Hananeel unto the king's wine-presses. And 
men shall dwell in it, and there shall be no more utter destruc- 
tion." 

I now call your attention to the judgments that will follow 
the rebellious or disobedient that fight against Jerusalem, under 
the general order number one. Verses 16,17, "And it shall 
come to pass, that every one that is left of all the nations, which 
come against Jerusalem, shall even go up from year to year to 
worship the King, the Lord of hosts, and to keep the feast of tab- 
ernacles. And it shall be that whoso will not come up of all 
the families of the earth unto Jerusalem to worship the King, the 
Lord of hosts, even upon them shall be no rain." As further evi- 
dence of judgment read verse 12, " And this shall be the plague, 
wherewith the Lord will smite all the people that have fought 
against Jerusalem ; their flesh shall consume awa}^, while they 
stand upon their feet, and their eyes shall consume away in their 
holes, and their tongues shall consume away in their mouths." 
As the evidence of purity read verse 20, " In that day shall there 
be upon the bells of the horses, HOLINESS UNTO THE LORD : 
And the pots in the Lord's house shall be like the bowls before 
the altar." 

And they certainly will not be used for the spittle of tobacco- 
juice, and the temple will not be desecrated with the fumes of 
tobacco-smoke as are the street-cars of Boston and surround- 
ings, b}^ furnishing three seats to accommodate a few, and sometimes 
saturating the clothing of the entire company, providing the wind 
be right. I would suggest that they put up a partition and a notice, 
The Devil's Palace Car. No. 1 seat, for drunkards or drinking 
persons. No. 2, for swearing and vulgar-mouthed people. No. 3 
for smoking or snuffing. Then the company charge them a little 
more, for their extra accommodations. I visit the sick and the 
afflicted people, and it is well known that tobacco-smoke is vcr}- 



ELDER W. G. RAYMOND. 275 

offensive to them. When in Washington, I was pressed to join 
the Jonadabs or Richabites to assist in saving some dissipated law- 
yers, doctors, and nabobs. We did bring them in by the dozen, 
and had a very large Hall ; these men would fill the Hall with 
tobacco-smoke, so much so, that my clothes would be saturated 
with the perfume. Ex-President Tyler's son said to me, that he 
had been intoxicated by the smoke, and had he not left, would have 
vomited right in the Hall. I said to the members of the frater- 
nity, " Gentlemen, if you are reformed men, take down your old 
sign ; for I cannot endure your perfumery." The next morning, I 
went to see a sick lad}^ with Dr. Clif t ; after having a season of 
praj'er with her, I left, she requesting the Doctor to tarr}' a 
few moments, when she said to him, " I wish 3'ou would say to 
Dr. Raymond not to call on me again, for he uses too much 
tobacco to suit me." The Doctor said to her, " Why the Elder 
never uses tobacco." " Then let him change his clothes before he 
visits the sick chamber." Dr. Cliffs name had been handed in 
and accepted to join the Jonadabs, but when I related the circum- 
stance of my clothing, — neither of us ever entered the Lodga 
again, or any other secret organization. 

If the Lord wants, or requires us to have clean hearts, and also 
the "Lifting up holj' hands without wrath and doubting." 1 Tim. 
ii : 8. He also requires a new tongue "But the tongue can no man 
tame ; it is an unruly evil full of deadly poison." Jas iii : 8. He 
hath promised to give us new tongues and I believe he requires us 
to have clean mouths. 

Again, I wish to call your attention to the engineering at Jeru- 
salem, which 3'ou will find in Ezek. xlvii : here we find one of the 
most wonderful openings that was ever made since the creation of 
the world, commencing at Azal, a seaport on the Mediterranean. 
This opening goes by the Temple and empties into the Dead Sea^ 
"And the waters in the Dead Sea, shall be cleansed and healed." 
Read verses 8 and 9, "Then said he unto me, these waters issue out 
toward the East Country, and go down into the desert, and go 
into the sea ; (Dead Sea) which being brought forth into the sea, 
(Dead Sea) the waters shall be healed. And it shall come to pass, 
that everything that liveth, which moveth, whithersoever the 
rivers shall come, shall live and there shall be a very great multi- 
tude of fish, because these waters shall come thither ; for they shall 



276 LIFE SKETCHES OF 

be healed ; and everything shall live whither the river cometh." The 
next morning you will see full-grown trees laden with ripe fruit, 
and they will yield their fruit every month. 12th verse, "And by 
the river upon the bank thereof, on this side, and on that side, 
shall grow all trees for meat, whose leaf shall not fade, neither 
shall the fruit thereof be consumed (or blasted) ; it shall bring 
forth new fruit according to his months, because, their waters, 
they issued out of the sanctuary ; and the fruit thereof shall be for 
meat, and the leaf thereof for medicine." You see by this, that the 
food will be fish and fruit. We shall not need butchers nor drug 
stores, nor undertakers, so the Chicago Beef Company will not have 
to send their beef there. The dimensions of the city may be found 
in Ezeh. xlviii : 20-35. The 30th verse reads, "And these are the 
goings out of the city on the north side, four thousand and five 
hundred measures. 31, And the gates of the city, shall be after 
the names of the tribes of Israel, three gates northward ; one gate 
of Ruben, one gate of Judah, one gate of Levi. This is the north 
side. 32, And at the east side four thousand and five hundred 
(measures) and three gates ; and one gate of Joseph, one gate of 
Benjamin, one gate of Dan. This includes a portion of the lost 
tribes of Israel ; some of them will- hail from Europe. 33, And at 
the south side four thousand and five hundred measures : and three 
gates, one gate of Simeon, one gate of Issachar, one gate for 
Zebulum. 34, At the west side four thousand and five hundred, 
(measures) with their three gates, one gate of Gad, one gate of 
Asher, one gate of Naphtali." 35, Now we come to the name of 
the city, and I will leave others to measure it, "It was round 
about eighteen thousand measures ; and the name of the city from 
that day shall be THE LORD IS THERE." It will never be 
tacked on the gate, the Lord is away on a vacation. During the 
thousand years, the Bride wHl enjoy the personal presence of 
Christ. I believe that Queen Victoria, is on David's throne to-day. 
She was born in Kensington Palace, May 24th, 1819. I was born 
July 4th, 1819, she being forty days older than I. She was made 
Queen June 20, 1837, fifty-four years last June she has been Queen 
of the United Kingdom of Great Britain. Her subjects have 
found a wise, gentle, happy Queen ; she has grasped the great 
truth, that the powers of the Crown are held in trust for the people, 
and are the means, and not the end, of Government. In grasping 
this great truth, has entitled her to the glorious distinction of 



ELDER W. G. RAYMOND. 277 

having been the most constitutional Monarch in the world. I 
believe that her Queenly influence, is felt b}^ every nation, and her 
domestic life has been favorably felt, all these years ; her stainless 
life, and piet}' are felt favorably as far as she is known. She has 
the great honor of being the last Queen on the throne of David, 
I do not attempt to prove my conviction. Jeremiah, and the 
daughter of Hezekiah, during the persecutions, fled to Europe, 
and she (the daughter of Hezekiah) married a Prince, and when 
the pedigree is known, this mystery will be made plain, w. g. r. 



Taking God at His Wokd. 
a miracle of healing. 

In May, 1882, I gave my heart to God, and soon after, the Holy 
Spirit brought to my notice these words, '"Verily, verily, I say 
unto you, he that belie veth on me, the works that I do, shall he 
do also ; and greater works than these shall he do, because I go 
unto my Father." Jo7m, xiv : 12. 

I searched the Word, to find out what Christ did while on earth, 
and found that he preached the Gospel, opened the eyes of the 
blind, and healed all manner of diseases — not one sufferer did he 
turn away. Then I read, "Jesus Christ the same, yesterday, 
to-day and forever." Heb., xiii : 8. 

I had a sister who had been an invalid for nineteen years. Four 
years and five months, she had been unable to speak louder than a 
whisper ; could not walk, or even raise herself up in bed. Her 
back was all out of shape with curvature of the spine ; while in- 
wardly she had a cancerous disease, that had nearly eaten to her 
vitals. 

In August 1882, I began to urge her to look to Christ to heal 
her, but she believed that death was the only way of relief. Twice 
a day, however, I besought God to heal m}' sister. 

Sometimes I would get discouraged with her, and older Chris- 
tians would say, "God is able, but — "I would ask, "But what? 
There is the Word. If it holds good for the soul, wh}' not for the 
bod}'?" O, how my heart did go out for some Christian friend 
who could see God's word as I did ! I had never heard of Carrie^ 
Judd or Dr. Cullis. 



278 LIFE SKETCHES OF 

December 17th, m}- sister was brought down to death's door ; 
the physician was called, and after long hours of terrible suffering 
she was put to sleep. 

Then I took her to the "Great Physician," and asked Him to 
heal her or take her to Himself that night. Three hours after, I 
thought my prayer was to be answered b}' death, and I said Amen. 
But as I spoke to her, she opened her eyes and praised the Lord 
with a loud voice, singing. 

" One more day's work for Jesus, 
How sweet the work has been, 

To tell the story, 

To show the Glory, 
Where Christ's light enters in. 

How it did shine in this poor heart of mine ! Words are too 
weak to describe my joj'. I looked about expecting to see the 
Saviour face to face, and I heard these words, "Standstill and see 
the salvation of God." 

January 3rd, 1883, a Christian lady come to spend the da}^ with 
us, and to praise the Lord for the restoration of sister's voice. 
As she was about to leave, we had prayers. She thanked God 
for what he had done, I also thanked Him, but asked Him for and 
my faith claimed a perfect cure. I asked God to give my sister 
the faith that the woman had who touched the hem of Christ's 
garment, that she might be made whole. My sister, then, for the 
first time, took this faith, and reaching up her hands, said " Lord, 
I do touch." Glory to God, she did touch, and was healed 
instantly and completel}^ Jesus said to her, " Go forth," and 
she obeyed saying, "Tis done, the great transaction's done." 
She threw back the bed clothes and walked out into the next 
room. 

Months before this, a physician "-old her that if she ever walked 
again, she would have to have a new back bone. I said, " Then 
the Lord will give her a new back bone," and he did, a perfectly 
straight one too, and he entirely removed the cancer that same 
hour. Every organ of her body was restored, as well as when she 
was born. 

For nineteen years she had taken opium, and even the desire to 
take any more was washed away. The doctors had to say it was 
a miracle. She was healed, and that permanently. 



ELDER W. G. RAYMOND. 279 

Dear Christian reader, hold up the banner of faith, and do not 
let it trail in the dust, as our fathers have done, but let it wave on 
high in the true sunlight of God. 

Mrs. Eunice E. Quackenbush. 



'Dear Elder Raymond: — I shall be very glad to place within 
your grasp and give to the world at large my testimony" of the 
good 3'ou have been to me, by the gift of God, in healing m}^ head 
of a trouble that was caused by sickness. Your prayers and your 
la^'ing on of hands not only caused my healing, but brought a 
special baptism to my soul. I bless God that he ever sent you to 
Chelsea. May 3'ou live manj'' long years to perform the great 
Gift of Healing, which we believe God has given you. I remain 
one of your faithful followers of Christ. 

Caroline Lyine Tucker Mehappey. 



The wisdom of this world made its painted window of the wise, 
the learned and the righteous, but the Saviour of mankind became 
the architect of a new society. He rejected the noble and the 
wise, and chose the common people, the very material that the 
wisdom of this world had condemned, and from the refuse of 
societ}' he has taken up the fallen sons of men and set them, like 
diamonds, to sparkle forever in the diadem of his glory. 

w. G. R. 



In the Spring of 1873, I left Woodhull, Steuben Co., N. Y., 
for Kansas, after burying my wife, and remaining there one year 
preaching in the Baptist church in Woodhull, where my health 
failed, as my book will show. After arriving in Kansas, I found 
a great change in the Auburn Baptist Church. I did what I could 
for them, in my invalid state. There was a man by the name of 
Lee (if my memory serves me) hailing from the South, with a 
woman, supposed to be his wife, and who had a peculiar gift to 
deceive the people . The}' soon received them into the Baptist church 
and in a limited time, ordained him, and made him pastor. Soon 
after this, a neighbor by the name of Cunningham, came to me 
and said, *' what kind of a man have you got preaching to you?" 
I replied, "wh}' do you ask me that question." He said, "I brought 



280 LIFE SKETCHES OF 

him in from Topeka, and he was so drunk that I could hardly hold 
him in the wagon." In a few days he came into my parlor, 
where the ladies' sewing society was being held, and his breath was 
so offensive, that they could not talk with him, I told Deacon Fox 
of the public exhibition ; he said, "I must have a talk with him,'* 
and also said, "you had better have a talk with him, it must be 
kept quiet, for he is pastor of the church ;" I said "it is already 
public." After he (Lee) learned of my knowledge of his conduct, 
he reported to the church that I was injuring him, and said if I 
were not turned out, he would leave the church. In a short time, 
they called in a clique and expelled me. This trouble, added tO' 
my feeble state of health, came very near carrying me over on the 
other side. Soon a^ter this, news came from the parents of his 
supposed wife, South, that Lee had deserted his wife, stolen their 
daughter and had run away with her, that he had been living in 
adultery all this time, she had become a mother, and he had 
threatened her life, if she exposed him. She did expose him,, 
however, and got a neighbor to write to her father to come after 
her. On his learning that they were going to arrest him, he took 
his departure, and I have never heard of him since. But the 
church has never sought to remove the scandal it brought upon 
me and my family. Sometime in November, 1874, I was recom- 
mended by Governor Osborn of Kansas, to sit as one of the grand- 
jur3'men of the U. S. Court held in Leavenworth, and was on the 
jury, for nearly one month. While there, the pastor and some of 
the leading members of the Baptist church said if I would call a 
council, it could be held in their meeting-house ; I did so, and the 
following clipping was published by them, in one of the newspapers, 
and I was unanimously received in the Leavenworth Baptist Church ; 
and also, a prophetic letter from the young ladies of Auburn from 
the most influential families there. I also had the sympath}' of 
the outside world, as will be seen, by the letters from Topeka,. 
and other portions of the state. W. G. Raymond. 



Auburn, March 30, 1874. 
Rev. G. W. Raymond, 

Dear Friend : — We the young ladies whose names are here 
attached, wish to say that we sympathize with you in 3'our deep- 
affliction. We pray that God will comfort and sustain you in this 
hour of trial. We believe great injustice has been done you. We- 



ELDER W. G. RAYMOND. 281 

love you, as a Christian minister and we know the time is not far 
distant when the right will prevail and you will stand forth a bright 
and shining light and be the means of bringing many to Christ. 
Accept our sympathies and may God bless you is our prayer. 

Miss Eva Brown, 
Miss Bertha B. Dyche, 
Miss Lula Dyche, 
Miss Kate Doll. 



At a council of ministers, called by Rev. W. G. Raymond a few 
weeks since, the following resolutions were adopted : 

Resolved^ That from such investigation as we have been able to 
give the matter, we consider the action of the council that deposed 
Bro. W. G. Ra3'mond from the christian ministry, and of the 
church that ratified the decision of the council, as having inflicted 
a great wrong upon the christian reputation of Bro. Raymond ; 
and that we recommend any Baptist church so disposed to restore 
Bro. Raymond to his full and regular standing as a christian and 
christian minister, with a view to giving any aggrieved parties a 
fair and impartial hearing as to any charges they have to make 
against the character of Bro. Ra3^mond. 

Resolved^ That if such parties present no charges to such 
church so receiving Bro. Raymond within a reasonable time, he be 
regarded and received as a good minister of Jesus Christ ; and 
if such parties do feel aggrieved by the action of such church in 
receiving him, and make such grievances known to such church, 
we recommend the church to call a full and impartial council to 
examine Bro. Raymond on any charges that may be presented 
against him and to give the church to which Bro. Raymond belongs 
such advice as they may deem advisable in the premises. 

J. B. Hard WICK, Chairman. 

Elder Cook, Clerk. 



Dr. J. T. Kent, 

3409 Washington Ave., 

St. Louis, Mo., Aug. 8, 1883. 
Rev. W. G. Raymond, 

Dear old Friend : — In regard to the details of your sickness my 
memory does not serve me well. Yet I can correct some of 3'our 
impressions. I had some notes once but they have been mislaid. 
But it was in April and May, 1873, that you had your sick spell 
at my father's house. I remember that you had been having 



282 LIFE SKETCHES OF 

attacks of colic and pain in 3'our abdomen and side for some time 
previous to the most violent attack. I remember that 3'ou had 
been sick some four or six weeks when I concluded to call my 
friend, Dr. Humphrey. At that time you were greatly prostrated 
and fluctuation was found in your liver, which showed that there 
was an abscess in that organ (the liver). In a few days frqm 
that consultation there were signs of sinking, when the prognosis 
became unfavorable, as it was evident that the abscess had 
ruptured internally. I remember that you vomited and purged a 
considerable quantity of bloody pus (matter). It was my opinion 
that the abscess had burrowed through the wall of the stomach 
and discharged its contents. This was the critical moment, and 
at this time I remember that you lost j'our head and passed into 
collapse. I was with you at 7 p.m. ; 3'ou had vomited violent!}' 
and was ver}' much disturbed in mind, bade good-bye to friends ; 
you were covered with a cold sweat and your pulse was very low. 
I remember of telling your friends that in mj' opinion you would 
die. It was at this time that I administered to you a powerful 
narcotic, thinking that rest only could tide you over a crisis. You 
slept till the next morning, and it was apparent to everybody' that 
you were better. You evidently had lost a day and night when 
we began to question your memory. 

Yes, I was with you, and so was my dear sister. I did not 
intend to leave you until you were better or needed me no more. 

I have given you as much of the case as I can remember. Ten 
years have passed since, and I may have forgotten much. 

I should believe any statement 3'Ou should make about any 
matter where it was possible for your judgment to be unerring, 

I write hastily as I am very bus}' at present. 

Warm regards, etc. 

J. T. Kent. 



Philadelphia Post-Graduate School of Homgepathics, 

Dr. J. T. Kent, Dean, 

1605 Walnut St. 

Aug. 23, 1891. 
W. G. Raymond, 

My Dear Friend : — Your letter came to me yesterda3\ I am 
very glad to hear from you. I left St. Louis three years ago last 
May, and have been living in Philadelphia ever since. I am in 





DR. J. T. KENT AND WIFE. 



ELDER W. G. RAYMOND. 283 

good health and working hard at m}' profession. My dear wife 
has been in poor health much of the time for five 3'ears, but shows 
signs of gain at present. I am settled in a very large business 
here, and have charge of a school for teaching graduated 
physicians, where I lecture six times each week during six months 
in the year. This, added to my practice, makes me a greatJabor. 
I am Professor of Materia Medica, and the Dean of its Faculty, 
which 3'ou know is the responsible head of the institution. 

I have very little recollection of the facts of your sickness, 
further than that you were very ill, and I know that I expected 
3'ou to die. Your wonderful constitution seemed to tide you over, 
and I fully believe that it was because your work was not done. 
The Lord's will was carried out. I can make no statement of the 
facts, as it is so long ago, and I have met so many hundreds of 
such experiences ; what seemed to be — or to be about to be, 
(futurus erse) death scenes — some have been such, and some, by 
the goodness of the Lord, have turned otherwise. 

With profound love for you, I am as ever, your brother in 
Christ, 




Dr. J. T. Kent has removed from 1419 to 1605 Walnut Street, 
Philadelphia. 



284 LIFE SKETCHES OF 

Elder W. G. Raymond, 

Dear Sir: — Will you please accept these unmetered lines as 
my testimony. 

Faith, Hope, Love. 1 Cor. xiii : 13. 
Tune—'' Glory." 

No not the love without the blood, 

That, were to me, no love at all, 
It would not reach my sinful soul, 

Nor hush the fears, which me appall. 

Chorus: Alleluia! Salvation, Glory, Honour, 

Power unto the Lord our God ! Rev. xix : 1» 

I need the love, I need the blood, 

I need the grace, the cross, the grave, 
I need the resurrection power, 

A soul like mine, to purge and save. 

The love I need, is righteous love ; 

Inscribed on the sin-bearing tree ; 
Love that exacts the sinner's debt, 

Yet, in exacting, sets me free. 

Love that condemns the sinner's sin. 

Yet in condemning, pardon seals ; 
That saves from righteous wrath. 

And yet, in saving, righteousness reveals. 

Love, boundless as Jehovah's self. 

Love, holy as his righteous law; 
Love, unsolicited, unsought. 

The love proclaimed on Golgotha. 

This is the love, that calms my heart, 

That soothes each conscious pang within; 

That pacifies my guilty dread, 

And frees me from the guilt of sin. 

The love that liberates and saves. 

That this poor, straightened soul expands 
That lifts me to the heaven of heavens, 

The throne above, not made with hands. 

• 
The love that quickens into zeal, 

That makes me self -denied and true ; 
That leads me out of what is old. 

And brings me into what is new. 

That purifies, and cheers, and calms ; 

That knows no change, and no decay. 
The love that loves forever more, 
Celestial sunshine, endless day. 

Mrs. Mat E. Vidito, 

Chelsea, Mass; 

P. S. This sister was miraculously healed and gloriously saved, 

W. G. B. 



ELDER W. G. RAYMOND. 285 

Lines dedicated to Elder W. G. Raymond, by one who felt the 
Influence of the Holy Spirit under his preaching in Chelsea. 

How lost is our condition, 

'Till Jesus makes us whole, 
Then come to this physician 

O every sin-sick soul. 

Believing in his power, 

Almighty for to save, 
That He in His great mercy 

DeUvered from the grave. 

And now the time has surely come 

By His inspired one. 
If we believe, we shall be healed 

Through His redeeming Son. 

The worst of all diseases, 

Are light, compared with sin. 
On every part it seizes. 

But rages most, within. 

But Christ the Great Physician, 

Who's help he'll freely give. 
He makes no hard condition, 

'Tis only look, and live. 

Then listen to His servant, 

Who stands from day to day 
With the gift of healing power, 

Your every plague to stay. 

Now as you enter Hawthorn Hall, 

Believe and be made whole. 
'Tis through the love of Jesus, 

We've soundness in our soul. 



Aug. 91. 



Mbs. S. E. Hikes. 



2S6 



LIFE SKETCHES OF 



He GFiariges Never. 



Dedicated to Eld. W. G-. Raymond. 

" TTieprayer of faith shall save the sick, and the Lord shall raise him up, and if he have 
committed siiis, they shall be forgiven him." — James v: 15. 

F. A. B. , F. A. Blackmer. 

A 1 N- 




^^^ 



When Je - sus was here, how He loved those 
He sent His rtis - ci-ples a -broad in 
Oh, come.suff-'ring one, to the fount - ain 
Oh, give to us. Lord, as Thy trutli shall 
To Him shall our glad songs of praise now 



=zEi2=43i3iii=iizi 



to bless, Who sought Him in 
His name. The works that He 
of love ! Look up ! now look 
un-fold, A faith that shall 
as -cend, Our won-der -ful 

^ 




sor - row, and pined 

did, bade He them 

up, earth - ly help - 

make us ag - gres - 

Broth - er, Re - deem 



i- 



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in dis - tress ; He still is the 

do the same ; Thus we shall be 

ers a - bove ! And faith in His 

sive and bold •, And help, that we 

- er and Friend ; Who loves us, who 



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same, and He 
blest, if the 
word shall the 
fast to the 
faith - ful shall 



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t=^t 




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m 






loves us 
prom - i$e 
bur - den 
prom - is - 
prove to 



no less. For 
we claim, For 
re - move, For 
es hold, For 
the end. For 



-9- 

Je - sus, the liOrd, chang -es 

Je - sus, the Lord, chang -es 

Je - sus, the Lord, chang -es 

Je - sus, the Lord, chang -es 

Je - sus, the Lord, chang -es 



nev - er. 

nev - er. 

nev - er. 

nev - er. 

nev - er. 



i^ 



Chorus. 



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Oh,wonderful truth! we the blessing may claim.The healing of body andsoul,m His name; 
Oh,yes,we believe,and the blessing ?iow claim, etc. 



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\HV-I- 



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Allglo-ry to God, "Jesus Christ Is the same, Yes-terday,to-day,and for -ev - er." 




Copyright, 1801, by F. A. Blackmer. "^ 

"Jesus Christ, the same, yesterday, to-day and forever.'* Heb, 

xiii : 8. w. g. r. 




3. RosiE Raymond. 



4. Mary Ann Kaymond. 
1. Mrs. Lumanda Raymond. 



2. Ella Raymond. 



6. Mariamne Raymond. 



5. Willie A. Raymond. 



7. Edwin L. Ryamond. 



ELDER W. G. RAYMOND. 287 

Portraits of My Family. 

The portraits on tlie opposite page are : 

No. 1, (the center picture,) Mrs. Lumanda, wife of Elder W. G. 
Ra3-mond, and daughter of William Simons, Esq., was born in 
Brookfield, Tioga Co., Pa. She was the mother of six children - 
One boy died in infancy, in Harrison Valley, Pa. 

William G. Raymond was born at Painted Post, N. Y., and 
died in Washington, when a little over three years old. He was 
a remarkably smart child, and his death produced great sadness 
in the famil}',. He was buried in the Congressional Grounds, in 
Washington, D. C, and a beautiful monument marks the spot 
where his body was laid. My wife died in the Spring of 1872, 
and was buried in a beautiful grove on the same farm on which 
she was born. This picture was taken in 1861, when she was in 
very poor health. 

No. 2, (at the right), is Ella Raymond. She married William 
Mitchell, Esq., who died of consumption, and she is now the wife 
of Thomas Porter, of Burlingame, Osage county, Kansas. She 
was born on my farm in Pultney. Steuben Co., N. Y., near the 
majestic, Crooked Lake, and was educated four years in the most 
advanced schools of Washington. She is now living on their rich, 
beautiful Kansas farm. 

No. 3 is Mary Ann Raymond, (the queen daughter.) She 
married George Smith, Esq., of Shawnee Co., Kansas. She was 
born on my beautiful farm in Little Valle}', Cattaraugus Co., N. Y., 
near the meandering, untamed Alleghany river. She, too, was 
educated in the highest schools of Washington. At one of the 
Presidential receptions she was honored with a kiss from our 
honored and lamented Lincoln, and when teased, or plagued by 
her sisters, would retort by saying: "You aren't any body — you 
have n't ever been kissed by the President of the United States." 
She was settled on their large and most lovelj- farm, four miles 
from Auburn, Kansas, a few moments drive from my mansion in 
the city of Auburn, near the Waukarooshee, which abounds with 
some of the finest of fish. Dear child ! she did not enjoy it long. 
After the birth of her little babe, she was fast improving, until 
thrown into convulsions from a foolish woman's talk, and died in 
two or three days afterward. She and her infant babe were buried 
in the graveyard near Auburn — this being the third idol the Lord, 
had taken from me. 



288 LIFE SKETCHES OF 

No. 4 is RosiE Raymond. She married Eijgene Roberts, of 
Auburn, Kansas, now a minister of the Methodist denomination. 
She was born in my home on my mill property, near, or in the 
great city of Bradford, where I lost a million of dollars, probably, 
by letting the hundreds of acres go before the oil was developed. 
There is one consoling thought ; all three of these girls were 
saved young, were immersed and joined the Baptist church. 
Daughter Rosie and husband are now on their Kansas farm, near 
Auburn, favored with fine blooded horses and stock. 

No. 5 is Master Willie Raymond. He was born on the Potta- 
wotlarriie Reservation, in the large school-building, and one Chief 
offered to adopt him and let him live with me. He lived with his 
sisters until he became of age. It has been a great regret of the 
family that he did not continue his studies at Ottawa University, 
a Baptist institution in Kansas, until he graduated. And I regret 
to say that I have not the evidence yet, of his salvation. Let all the 
saints pray for his salvation. 

No. 6 is Mariamne Raymond. She was born at Union Corners, 
in the Baptist parsonage, Livingston Co., N. Y. Her mother was 
Martha Raymond, formerly from Livingston Co., N. Y., and 
whose mother was known as the widow Smith, until she married 
Dea. Ferris at Howard's Flats, Steuben Co., N. Y., in whose 
house we were married. She died soon after the birth of my son 
Edwin, and was buried in the graveyard near Jasper, Steuben Co., 
N. Y. Mariamne (who, for convenience sake, is now called Mary) , 
was adopted by a wealthy family who agreed to educate her, but 
failed to do as they promised, and treated her so roughlj^ that she 
was driven out into the world and floated down almost to death's 
door. God only knows what the dear child suffered. She has 
been gloriously saved, and is doing a wonderful work on the line 
of boats from New York to Buffalo. She has worked consider- 
ably with me in leading boatmen to Christ. She is, in the strictest 
sense, a Holy Ghost woman. An account of her healing and 
salvation are given in my book. She is the wife of Gapt. Ira 
Goldsmith, who owns boats on the New York and Erie Canal, 
and through the healing of his bod}^ was led to Christ and im- 
mersed in New York Baj- over three years ago. He owns two 
houses in Elmira, but does not live in either. 

No. 7 is Edwin L. Raymond. He was born in Jasper, Steuben 
Co., N. Y. My wife, before she died, promised to let Sister 



ELDER W. G. RAYMOND. 289 

Hannah Simpson have Edwin, with the promise that they would 
adopt him as their child, which they failed to do, and as the rela- 
tives got the property, it demoralized my son until he nearly lost 
his soul. About four years ago, in answer to prayer, he was glo- 
riously healed and saved. Also »Rean, his wife, was gloriously 
healed and saved. They own a beautiful place at Mt. Jewett, 
McKeen Co., Pa. He is now Elder Edwin L. Raymond. All the 
grandchildren I have, are four, and the}^ belong to this family. 
Master Claudie Raymond is the youngest. Minnie Raymond is 
quite a musician. Clara Raymond — these three, have been im- 
mersed, and belong to the Church of God. Milton Raymond, the 
young man, is not saved. I hope the saints will pray for his 
salvation ; he has talents, and if saved, would do a good work 
for the Master. 



The number baptized in the Mystic River, East Boston, during 

my labors in Chelsea is, up to date, Sept. 29th, nintey-three, and 

the total within a few years, nearly six hundred. 

My present address is, 

Elder W. G. Raymond, 

13 George St., Chelsea, Mass. 

Care of H. L. Hastings. 




19 



Chapter XV. 




WHAT IS MAN? 

'he first definition will be found in Genesis, 1st: 
26, 27: And God said, ''Let us make man in 
our image, after our likeness ; and let them have 
dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the 
fowl of the air, and over the cattle, and over all the 
earth, and over every creeping thing, that creepeth 
upon the earth." 
So God created man in his own image, in the image of God, 
created he him ; male and female created he them. 

Read the balance of the chapter, also 2d chap. 7th verse : '*And 
the Lord God formed man of the dust of the ground, and breathed 
into his nostrils the breath of life ; and man became a living soul." 
If the Almighty had breathed into his mouth, the volition would 
have been in the heart : and the heart would have been the capitol 
of the temple. But he breathed his spirit of life into his nostrils 
which entered the casket, or soul of the temple, where the volition 
is, and man became a living soul throughout his entire body. 

The capitol of the United States, is not the United States ; it is 
the centre or head of the United States. The members of the 
House and Senate are the volitions of the United States ; yet all 
the States are recognized in the Body, through the arteries, which 
are the members of the House and Senate. The President and 
Vice-President preside : their power is delegated. 

The Supreme Court is the heart of the Body. The will, and the 
choice of the people, are the life of the Nation ; they are the Sov- 
ereigns. And the elective franchise, and the ballot-box, are the 
vitality of the nation. 

The Almighty ought to be recognized in all departments of 
Government. I regret that he is not fully recognized in the Con- 
stitution. If the fountain, or the people, be pure, the Represent- 
atives will be pure. If our nation fail, it will not be for the want 
of intelligence, but for the want of honesty and of purity. 



ELDER W. G. RAYMOND. 291 

The main arteries, financially, are the farm, the factory, the 
inventor, the press and the laborer. 

The veins of out Nation may be seen in the ramifications of our 
railroads and the electric wire, in every direction. These, in con- 
nection with canals, and the marine forces, distribute life and 
comfort to every hamlet throughout the Union. 

The coal, the oil, — gold and silver mines, etc., with the products 
from the water, are the engines that carry this Nation to life and 
prosperity, or to endless destruction. 

Jay Gould and Vanderbilt, together with thousands of others, 
may be considered conductors of our great financial enterprises. 

James G. Blaine, Secretary of State, is, in my judgment, one 
of the greatest statesman now living. And the President, Ben- 
jamin Harrison, I regard as a safe man, with all needed ability, to 
conduct our national affairs. 

I am now no politician, and never expect to be again ; yet I 
have a deep interest in the welfare of our nation. For seventy- 
two years I have lived in the United States and look upon this 
nation as being the wealthiest, the most intellectual, and the most 
powerful one, on the face of the globe. 

I believe in bringing out this wonderful figure of the nation. 
I have been led to more fully illustrate the functions of the human 
body. I wish to call attention to Leviticus, 17th : 11, 12 : "For 
the life of the flesh is in the blood ; and I have given it to you upon 
the altar, to make an atonement for your souls ; for it is the blood 
that maketh an atonement for the soul. 

Therefore I said unto the children of Israel, no soul of you shall 
eat blood, neither shall any stranger that sojourneth among you 
eat blood." 

It is very clear that we use the mouth to eat with, and yet it is 
here called soul. 

Please read IstKiags, 17 : 1-24 : 21st verse : "And he stretched 
himself upon the child three times, and cried unto the Lord, and 
said, O Lord, my God, I pray thee, let this child's soul come into- 
him again." Read 19th verse: "And he said unto her, give me 
thy son. And he took him out of her bosom, and carried him up 
into a loft, where he abode, and laid him upon his own bed." He 
stretched himself upon the child three times, I believe, breathed 
each time into his nostrils, and the spirit of life came into the 
casket — the soul, — "And said, see thy son liveth. And the woman 



292 LIFE SKETCHES OF 

said unto Elijah, now by this I know that thou art a man of God, 
and that the word of the Lord in thy mouth is truth." 

What will more quickly restore confidence than the raising of a 
dead child to its mother? Read Proverbs, 6th: 30: "Men do 
not despise a thief, if he steal to satisfy his soul, when he is 
hungry." 

Who can think for a moment, that a soul can be fed on stolen 
property ; here, the ph3'sical mouth is again referred to. 

Look at Gen. 12th: 5 : "And Abraham took Sarai, his wife, 
and Lot his brother's son, and all their substance that they had 
gathered, and all their souls (or bodies) that they had gotten in 
Haran ; and they went forth. Who questions but what Abraham 
was counting their children. 

Read Gen. 46th: 25, 27, 29. "These are the sons of Bilhah, 
which Laban gave unto Rachel his daughter, and she bore these 
unto Jacob : all the souls (or bodies) were seven. 

All the souls (or bodies) which came with Jacob into Egypt, 
which came out of his loins, besides Jacob's son's wives, all the 
souls (or bodies) were threescore and six. 

And the sons of Joseph, which were born him in Egypt, were 
two souls (or bodies) ; all the souls (or bodies) of the house of 
Jacob, which came into Egypt, were threescore and ten. 

Acts 2d: 41. "Then they that gladly received his word were 
baptized ; and the same day there were added unto them about 
three thousand souls (or bodies). Acts 7th : 14th. Then sent 
Joseph and called his father Jacob to him, and all his kindred, 
threescore and fifteen souls (or bodies). Acts, 27th : 37. And we 
were all in the ship, two hundred threescore and sixteen souls", (or 
bodies). Read 1st Peter, 3d :20. "While the ark was preparing, 
wherein few, that is, eight souls (or bodies) were saved by water." 

Who can believe that the spiritual, according to theology, is here 
referred to. 

Read Luke 23d: 46. "And when Jesus had cried with a loud 
voice, he said. Father, into thy hands I commend my Spirit ; and 
having said thus, he gave up the Ghost." Read Acts 7th : 59. 
*'And they stoned Stephen, (he) calling upon God, and saying, 
Lord Jesus, receive my Spirit." 60th verse : "And he kneeled 
down, and cried with a loud voice. Lord, lay not this sin to their 
charge. And when he had said this he fell asleep." 

Read Rev. 11th : 7, 12. And when they shall have finished their 
testimony, the beast that ascendeth out of the bottomless pit shall 



ELDER W. G. RAYMOND. 293 

make war against them, and shall overcome them and kill them. 
8th verse : And their dead bodies shall lie in the streets of the 
great city, which spirituall}' is called Sodom and Egypt, where 
also our Lord was crucified. 9th verse : And the}^ of the people 
and kindreds, and tongues, and nations, shall see their dead bodies 
three days and a half, and shall not suffer their dead bodies to be 
put in graves. 10th verse : And they that dwell upon the earth 
shall rejoice over them, and make merry, and shall send gifts one 
to another ; because these two prophets tormented them that dwell 
on the earth. 11th verse: And after three days and a half the 
Spirit of life from God entered into them, and they stood upon 
their feet ; and great fear fell upon them which saw them. 12th 
verse: And they heard a great voice from Heaven, sajdng unto 
them, "Come up hither. And they ascended up to heaven in a 
cloud ; and their enemies beheld them." Read Luke, 8th : 54-56. 
"And he put them all out, and took her by the hand, and called, 
saying, maid, arise. 

And her spirit came again and she arose straightway ; and he 
commanded to give her meat. 

And her parents were astonished : but he charged them that they 
should tell no man what was done." 

Read Genesis, 49th : 33. "And when Jacob had made an end of 
commanding his sons, he gathered up his feet into the bed, and 
yielded up the ghost, and was gathered unto his people." 

Read Hebrews, 11th : 5th. By faith Enoch was translated that 
he should not see death ; and was not found, because God had 
translated him ; for before his translation, he had this testimony^ 
that he pleased God." 

' Now read Gen. 5th : 24. "And Enoch walked with God : and he 
was not ; for God took him." 

Here was one man that walked bodily, into Heaven. 

Read 2d Kings, 2d : 9, and also the remaining verses of the 
chapter: "And it came to pass when they were gone over, that 
Elijah said unto Elisha, Ask what I shall do for thee, before I be 
taken away from thee. And Elisha said, I pray thee, let a double 
portion of thy spirit be upon me. 

10th verse : And he said : thou hast asked a hard thing ; never- 
theless, if thou see me when I am taken from thee, it shall be so 
unto thee ; but if not, it shall not be so. 

11th verse. And it came to pass, as they went on, and talk'-, 
that behold, there appeared a chariot of fire, and horses of dr^'. 



294 LIFE SKETCHES OF 

and parted them both asunder, and Elijah went up by a whirlwind 
into Heaven. 

Here is one saint that went up into Heaven in a chariot of fire, 
a much shorter route than Enoch took. 

12th verse. And Elisha saw it, and he cried, my father, my 
father, the chariot of Israel, and the horsemen thereof. And he 
saw him no more, and he took hold of his own clothes, and rent 
them in two pieces. 

13th verse : He took up also, the mantle of Elijah, that fell from 
him, and went back and stood by the bank of Jordan ; 

14th verse. And he took the mantle of Elijah, that fell from 
him, and smote the waters, and said, where is the Lord God of 
Elijah ! and when he also, had smitten the waters, they parted 
hither and thither : and Elisha went over. 

15th verse. And when the sons of the prophets which were to 
view Jericho saw him, they said the spirit of Elijah doth rest upon 
Elisha. And they came to meet him, and bowed themselves to 
the ground before him. 

16th verse. And they said unto him, behold now, there be with 
thy servants, fifty strong men ; let them go, we pray thee, and 
seek thy master ; lest peradventure the Spirit of the Lord hath 
taken him up and cast him upon some mountain, or into some 
valley. And he said, ye shall not send. 

17th verse. And when they urged him till he was ashamed, he 
said, send. They sent therefore fifty men ; and they sought three 
days, but found him not. 

18th verse. And when they came again to him, (for he tarried 
at Jericho), he said unto them, did I not say unto you, go not? 

While they were on a Tom Fool's errand, the prophet was in 
Heaven, having a jubilee with Enoch, Abraham, Moses, and 
many other of the patriarchs. 

To the mystery, shrouding around the departure of Moses, the 
key will be found in Deut. xxxiv : God ordered him up on the moun- 
tain of Nebo, to the top, or pinnacle of Pisgah, a little way from 
Jericho. " And the Lord showed him all the land of Gilead and 
Dan, Naphtali, Ephraim, Manasseh, Judah, unto the utmost sea the 
south, the plain, the valley of Jericho, the city of palm trees unto 
Zoar." God permitted Moses to see the promised land, and 
renewed the title of it. ''So Moses the servant of the Lord dwelt 
there in the land of Moab, according to the word of the Lord. 



ELDER W. G. RAYMOND. 295 

And he buried him in the land of Moab over against Beth Peor ; 
but no man knoweth of his sepulchre to this day. Read xxxii : 
50, "And be gathered unto thy people." Also read Luke ix : 
30-37. "And behold there talked with him two men which were 
Moses and Elias : Who appeared in glory and spakew of his 
decease which he should accomplish at Jerusalem.'* It is very 
apparent, that Moses did not remain long in the grave. 

I wish to call attention to the 

PHYSICAL DEVELOPMENT OF THE BODY, 
Please read Psalm cxi^ i 13-18, "For thou hast possessed my 
reins : thou hast covered me in my mother's womb. I will 
praise thee ; for I am fearfully and wonderfully made : marvellous 
are thy works ; and that my soul knoweth right well. My sub- 
stance was not hid from thee, when I was made in secret and 
curiously wrought in the lowest parts of the earth. Thine eyes 
did see my substance, yet being unperfect, and in thy book all my 
members were written, which in continuance were fashioned, when 
as yet there was none of them. How precious also are thy thoughts 
unto me, O God ! how great is the sum of them. If I should 
count them, they are more in number than the sand ; when I 
awake, I am still with thee." 

Look at your body, and estimate if you can, its value. The 
frame consists of two hundred and upward of bones, joined 
together with great perfection. From the elbow, one bone acts 
partially as a brace to the other, so that we can lift more than our 
weight. The spine, while it is hollow in the centre, is flexible. 
The physiological term being vertebrae ; the divisions are seven, 
termed dorsals, five lumbar, five sacral and four coccygeal vertebrae, 
five unite in one bone, and their complications, beyond my limited 
space to relate. The cushing or packing between each joint pre- 
venting sudden jars to the brain ; this being done to guard against 
injury to the precious gem in the casket. In some respects, it 
(the spine) resembles a thousand-legged worm, and serves as a 
shaft, to the body. When we see a whiffling shiftless man, we often 
say, he hasn't any back bone. The pelvis, termed sacrum, some 
what resembles two clam shells, with the spine miraculously knit 
in the centre. The muscles of the back are very numerous, and 
those that pass through the spinal column, are a mystery to the 
world ; they are regular, and yet irregular ; and the nerves, are 



296 LIFE SKETCHES OF 

interlaid miraculously, all running to the battery in the head, so as 
to notify the operator, of any injury. The spine runs as mj'steri- 
ously, and is fastened in the skull, as in the hips, yet, so as to 
give the head perfect liberty and freedom of movement. The 
chest is as wonderfully placed, and may be termed, an elastic box 
as an elastic screen, over the lungs and heart ; it is fastened 
behind, by the bodies of the vertebrae, front, breast bone, sides, 
ribs and cartilages sternum, a flat bone consisting of three pieces, 
resembling an ancient sword. Twenty-four ribs contain the 
frame work, these are firmly cemented with the same mystery, the 
circle in the ribs gives them great strength. The heart has a cavity, 
large enough to hold considerable blood, composed of the very best 
muscular material and placed in the chest so as to have the full 
benefit of the lungs ; it is supplied with air, through the air tubes ; 
the valve, is a flap, to protect the heart, and regulate the flow of 
blood. The heart is from four to six inches in length, and per- 
fectly proportioned ; the divisions of the heart are also a mystery ; 
the right auricle receives the blood from the two main veins of the 
body, and there are numerous arteries conveying the blood to every 
part of the syetem. The propelling power is pure air through the 
lungs, causing vibration ; and the lungs, like the liver, refine and 
purify the blood, and it would take a long chapter to give the 
details. 

The gall-bladder, lying just under the liver and connected with it, 
is used to cut away the poison and slime that accumulate on the 
bur of the liver and a portion of it may possibly find its way into 
the kidneys ; an overfiow of the gall-bladder, into the liver is 
productive of jaundice, causing the eyes and skin to assume a 
yellow appearance. The liver is kept in motion by the force 
of the heart and lungs. The stomach is the reservoir for food 
and air, and may be considered a creamery ; the saliva, as the 
producer of the cream, and causes the cream to rise, which is 
called chyle, this is taken up by little absorbent vessels, into 
the liver, and other portions of the body in its crude state, 
and refined, or clarified, as it comes in couuection with the air- 
tubes, and is colored and flavored into pure blood, ready for 
the heart or engine, and the arteries ; as the blood goes down, 
it only unloads, to the interior of the body, and that, by little 
branch conductors ; as it comes back, these branch conductors, 
or veins, are increased a hundred-fold. If the heart be all 



ELDER W. G. RAYMOND. 297 

right, and there is power enough in the lungs to run the engine, it 
will only unload as the demands of the bod}- require. A health}^ 
beat, or throw of the engine, is from seventy to eighty a minute. 
Through the nerves, there may be an artificial heat created by a 
fever, with the stoppage of the air tubes, with an enlargement of the 
liver, pressing against the fleshy substance surrounding the heart, 
and prevent the valves from freely acting, causing a smothering 
or faintness. When poison enters the stomach, these little valves 
shut down for a time, forbidding its advance, with a special effort 
to throw it back, and medical men seek to produce vomiting, and 
throw it out as quickly as possible. Duodenum, or second stomach 
is much smaller than the stomach proper, and is connected with 
the gall-bladder in shape, like a glass globe, over an electric light, 
and tapering off into the small intestines, then extending down 
into the lower part of the bowels, into what is called ileum, this, 
entering into the large intestine, extending up again to the stomach, 
then coming down on the left side to what is known as the rectum, 
to the levator or break, terminating at the anus. There is an 
electric cord running from the lower part of the rectum to the head 
connected with the volition, also, one connected with the lower 
part of the stomach, a powerful break ; and one ending at the 
second stomach. If the devil, and disease are withheld, the presid- 
ing oflScer, is in the temple, the brain or soul ; and has a super- 
vision of the almost unnumbered muscles and nerves ; the brain is 
a battery, holding intimate relations with the entire body. The 
ej'^es, are the windows to the soul or powerful magnifying glasses 
to discern approaching evil, and constructed of the very best of 
material, and miraculously arranged. 

The nose is the channel through which air goes to the upper 
part of the temple, also to the seat of the sense of smell, and 
assists in breathing more easily, so that a person can at times keep 
the mouth shut! Some noses are ornamental, and some are not. 
The ears are port-holes, so that we may detect the enemy, in his 
approach to the temple ; the drum, of the ear, receives the signals, 
conveying them to the volition, and from there, are sent to the 
tongue, or feet, or hands, with the order, to defend, the temple, 
or to give embassies of peace or anathemas, warning them to keep 
at a proper distance. 

The mouth was designed for a great air ventilator ; a convenience 
through which fuel, air or food, can be taken into the stomach to 



298 LIFE SKETCHES OF 

keep the engine, or heart in motion, and to express gratitude to 
God, for this wonderful arrangement. 

The hair, is ornamental, and it serves also, as a covering to the 
head ; it is believed that they are breathing tubes. 

The pores, or valves, are also arranged so as to take in air, 
and throw off impurities of the body. The Lord has provided 
sacs, that contain fluid, to anoint all the joints, and this is done 
through the action of the bodj^ The mechanism, of this temple, 
is wonderful beyond all description. G-od, has blended the phys- 
ical, the mental, and the moral qualities, into one body. 

The sun, the moon, and the stars, sink into insignificance, when 
compared to the human body. They are material, under irresist- 
ible power ; they are fixed, and controlled, by irresistible laws. 
Think of the velocity of thought that emanates from this temple, 
passing through and around the sun, standing in admiration on 
the moon, skipping from one star to another, plunging into the 
depths of the sea, passing over the material and going up before 
the throne of God, admiring angels — looking at the beautiful man- 
sions, admiring the Son of God — listening to the songs of angels, 
and the redeemed, — bowing in adoration before the throne — receiv- 
ing his benediction and smiles, returning again to the body to re- 
port, believing that this body will be presented before the Lord, 
without blemish, or spot, or wrinkle. In this vast circuit of a few 
minutes, the mind is as restful as if we had been reclining in an 
easy chair, under the shade of a beautiful tree. Wonderful ! 
Wonderful ! ! Wonderful ! ! ! to the Father, Son and Holy 
Ghost. Hallelujah, Hallelujah, Hallelujah to the Lamb, for ever, 
and ever, and ever. Glory to God in the highest — Peace and 
good will to man. Amen, andAmen. 

The devil is at the bottom of all diseases ; he is seeking 
constantl}^ to throw this machinery out of gear. He can produce 
symptoms of diseases that do not exist. Insanity is produced b}' 
Satan entering the brain in the form of a serpent, controlling the 
volition, and throwing the whole machinery into confusion. He 
can be dislodged by using the sword, as recorded in Heb. 4th : 
12. For the word of God is quick and powerful^ and sharper than 
any two-edged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul 
and spirit^and of tlie joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the 
thoughts, and intents of the heart. 

Epilepsy is caused by the devil getting under the liver and in 
the region of the stomach, running up till he strikes the nerve- 



ELDER W. G. RAYMOND. 299 

tube, and throwing one of the cogs out of gear, brings confusion 
into the family. Apoplexy is caused by separating the connection 
of the body in the blood vessels, and throwing the heft of the 
blood on the opposite side, and running down the muscles, as 
lightning darts down a tree. I have seen it reversed in a short 
time, in the name of Jesus Christ ; it is a lightning stroke of death, 
produced by the devil. The catarrh is caused by the devil getting 
into the garret through the nose ; he is the filthiest devil of them 
all, as he throws all the filth into the lower part of the building. 
In the name of Jesus, I have dislodged thousands of them. The 
receipt for purifying the blood, may be found in Joel 3d : 21. "For 
I will cleanse their blood, that I have not cleansed ; for the Lord 
dwelleth in Zion." 

The consumption is caused by disobedience to the laws of God 
and the human system. As proof of this, read the following. If 
3'e shall despise my statutes, or if your soul abhor my judgments, 
80 that ye will not do all my commandments, but that ye break 
my covenant ; I also will do this unto 3^ou ; I will even appoint 
over you terror, consumption and the burning ague, that shall 
consume the eyes and cause sorrow of heart. Lev. 26th : 15, 16, 
this is cured by the lading on of hands and prayers, in a very 
short time. 

The derangement of the liver is caused in many cases by tight 
lacing, thereby smothering and afflicting the valves and breathing 
apparatuses. 

The seat of life is located in the region of the hips, or pelvis. I 
mean animal, or phj'sical life. The causes are imprudence, or reck- 
lessness ; the penalty is severe, and death enters where life ought 
to prevail. There is a large quantity of waterj^ fluid that enters 
the kidneys and is there clarified. A large proportion of it enters 
the bladder, and after going through a straining process, passes 
the neck of the bladder as urine. The kidneys may be seriously 
injured by a strain of the spine ; if so, it will create a fever, 
and this again, will affect the bladder, when the enemy will use 
this to produce death in this region of the body ; and I do not 
know of any power, but God's power, that can remove it. 

W. G. Kaymond. 

I believe that God holds the Shepherds or Pastors responsible 
for the body, as he does for the soul. I bring the two following 
chapters as proof of it. w. g. r. 



300 LIFE SKETCHES OF 

EzEKiEL, Chapter XXXIV. 
Unfaithful Shepherds rebuked. 

1 And the word of the Lord came unto me, saying, 

2 Son of man, prophesy against the shepherds of Israel^ 
prophesy, and say unto them, Thus saith the Lord God unto the 
shepherds ; Woe he to the Shepherds of Israel that do feed them- 
selves ! should not the shepherds feed the flocks ? 

3 Ye eat the fat, and ye clothe you with the wool, ye kill them 
that are fed : but ye feed not the flock. 

4 The diseased have ye not strengthened, neither have ye 
healed that which was sick, neither have ye bound up that which 
was broken, neither have ye brought again that which was driven 
away, neither have ye sought that which was lost ; but with force 
and with cruelty have ye ruled them. 

5 And they were scattered, because there is no shepherd : and 
they became meat to all the beasts of the field, when they were 
scattered. 

6 My sheep wandered through all the mountains, and upon 
every high hill : yea, my flock was scattered upon all the face of 
the earth, and none did search or seek after them. 

7 Therefore, ye shepherds, hear the word of the Lord : 

8 As 1 live, saith the Lord God, surely because my flock 
became a prey, and my flock became meat to every beast of the 
field, because there tvas no shepherd, neither did my shepherds 
search for my flock, but the shepherds fed themselves, and fed not 
my flock ; 

9 Therefore, O ye shepherds, hear the word of the Lord ; 

10 Thus saith the Lord God ; Behold, I am against the shep- 
herds ; and I will require my flock at their hand, and cause them 
to cease from feeding the flock ; neither shall the shepherds feed 
themselves any more ; for I will deliver my flock from their mouth, 
that they may not be meat for them. 

11 For thus saith the Lord God; Behold, I, even I, will both 
search my sheep, and seek them out. 

12 As a shepherd seeketh out his flock in the day that he is 
among his sheep that are scattered ; so will I seek out my sheep, 
and will deliver them out of all places where they have been 
scattered in the cloudy and dark day. 

13 And I will bring them out from the people, and gather 
them from the countries, and will bring them to their own land, 
and feed them upon the mountains of Israel by the rivers, and in 
all the inhabited places of the country. 

14 I will feed them in a good pasture, and upon the high 
mountains of Israel shall their fold be ; there shall they lie in a 
good fold, and in a fat pasture shall they feed upon the moun- 
tains of Israel. 



ELDER W. G. RAYMOND. * 301 

15 I will feed 1113' flock, and I will cause them to lie down, 
saith the Lord God. 

16 I will seek that which was lost, and bring again that which 
was driven away, and will bind up that which was broien, and 
will strengthen that which was sick : but I will destroy the fat and 
the strong ; I will feed them with judgment. 

17 And as for you, O my flock, thus saith the Lord God; 
Behold, I judge between cattle and cattle, between the rams and 
the he goats. 

18 Seemeth it a small thing unto you to have eaten up the good 
pasture, but ye must tread down with your feet the residue of 
3'our pastures? and to have drunk of the deep waters, but ye must 
foul the residue with 3^our feet? 

19 And as for my flock, tbey eat that which ye have trodden 
with your feet ; and they drink that which j^e have fouled with 
your feet. 

20 Therefore thus saith the Lord God unto them ; Behold, I, 
even I, will judge between the fat cattle and between the lean cattle. 

21 Because ye have thrust with side and with shoulder, and 
pushed all the diseased with your horns, till ye have scattered them 
abroad ; 

22 Therefore will I save my flock, and they shall no more be a 
prey ; and I will judge between cattle and cattle. 

23 And I will set up one Shepherd over them, and he shall 
feed them, even my servant David ; he shall feed them, and he 
shall be their shepherd. 

24. And I the Lord will be their God, and my servant David 
a prince among them ; I the Lord have spoken it. 

25 And I will make with them a covenant of peace, and will 
cause the evil beasts to cease out of the land : and they shall 
dwell safely in the wilderness, and sleep in the woods. 

26 And I will make them and the places round about my hill a 
blessing ; and I will cause the shower to come down in his season ; 
there shall be showers of blessing. 

27 And the tree of the fleld shall yield her fruit, and the earth 
shall yield her increase, and they shall be safe in their land, and 
shall know that I am the Lord, when I have broken the bands of 
their yoke, and delivered them out of the hand of those that served 
themselves of ihem. 

28 And they shall no more be a prey to the heathen, neither 
shall the beast of the land devour them ; but they shall dwell 
safely, and none shall make them afraid. 

29 And I will raise up for them a plant of renown, and they 
shall be no more consumed with hunger in the land, neither bear 
the shame of the heathen any more. 

30 Thus shall they know that I the Lord their God am with 
them, and that they, even the house of Israel, are my people, saith 
the Lord God. 



302 * LIFE SKETCHES OF 

31 And ye m}^ flock, the flock of my pasture, are men, and I am. 
your God, saith the Lord God. 



Jeremiah, Chapter XXIII. 

Wicked Pastors and False Prophets. 

1 Woe be unto the pastors that destroy and scatter the sheep 
of my pasture ! saith the Lord. 

2 Therefore thus saith the Lord God of Israel against the 
pastors that feed my people ; Ye have scattered my flock and 
driven them away, and have not visited them : behold, I will visit 
upon you the evil of your doings, saith the Lord. 

3 And I will gather the remnant of my flock out of all countries 
whither I have driven them, and will bring them again to their 
folds ; and they shall be fruitful and increase. 

4 And I will set up shepherds over them which shall feed them ; 
and they shall fear no more, nor be dismayed, neither shall they 
be lacking, saith the Lord. 

5^ Behold, the days come, saith the Lord, that I will raise 
unto David a righteous Branch, and a King shall reign and prosper, 
and shall execute judgment and justice in the earth. 

6 In his days Judah shall be saved, and Israel shall dwell 
safely : and this is his name whereby he shall be called, THE LORD 
OUR RIGHTEOUSNESS. 

7 Therefore, behold, the days come, saith the Lord, that they 
shall no more say. The Lord liveth, which brought up the children 
of Israel out of the land of Egypt ; 

8 But The Lord liveth, which brought up and which led the 
seed of the house of Israel out of the north country, and from all 
countries whither I had driven them ; and they shall dwell in their 
own land. 

9 ^ Mine heart within me is broken because of the prophets ; 
all my bones shake: I am like a drunken man, and like a man 
whom wine hath overcome, because of the Lord, and because of 
the words of his holiness. 

10 For the land is full of adulterers ; for because of swearing 
the land mourneth ; the pleasant places of the wilderness are dried 
up, and their course is evil, and their force is not right. 

1 1 For both prophet and priest are profane ; yea, in my house 
have I found their wickedness, saith the Lord. 

12 Wherefore their ways shall be unto them as slippery ways 
in the darkness : they shall be driven on, and fall therein : for I 
will bring evil upon them, even the year of their visitation, saith 
the Lord. 

13 And I have seen folly in the prophets of Samaria ; they 
prophesied in Baal, and caused my people Israel to err. 



ELDER W. G. RAYMOND. 303 

14 I have seen also in the prophets of Jerusalem a horrible 
thing : they commit adultery, and walk in lies : they strengthen 
also the hands of evil doers, that none doth return from his wicked- 
ness : they are all of them unto me as Sodom, and the inhabitants 
thereof as Gomorrah. 

15 Therefore thus saith the Lord of hosts concerning the 
prophets ; Behold, I will feed them with wormwood, and make 
them drink the water of gall : for from the prophets of Jerusalem 
is profaneness gone forth into all the land. 

16 Thus saith the Lord of hosts, Hearken not unto the words 
of the prophets that prophesy unto you : they make you vain : they 
speak a vision of their own heart, and not out of the mouth of the 
Lord. 

17 They say still unto them that despise me. The Lord hath 
said. Ye shall have peace ; and they say unto every one that 
walketh after the imagination of his own heart. No evil shall come 
upon you. 

18 For who hath stood in the counsel of the Lord, and hath 
perceived and heard his word? who hath marked his word and 
heard it 9 

19 Behold, a whirlwind of the Lord is gone forth in fury, even 
a grievous whirlwind : it shall fall grievously upon the head of the 
wicked. 

20 The anger of the Lord shall not return, until he have 
executed, and till he have performed the thoughts of his heart : in 
the latter days ye shall consider it perfectly. 

21 I have not sent these prophets, yet they ran: I have not 
spoken to them, yet they prophesied. 

22 But if they had stood in my counsel, and had caused my 
people to hear my words, then they should have turned them from 
their evil way, and from the evil of their doings. 

23 Am I a God at hand, saith the Lord, and not a God afar off? 

24 Can any hide himself in secret places that I shall not 
see him ? saith the Lord. Do not I fill heaven and earth ? saith 
the Lord. 

25 I have heard what the prophets said, that prophesy lies in 
my name, saying, I have dreamed, I have dreamed. 

26 How long shall this be in the heart of the prophets that 
prophesy lies? yea, they are prophets of the deceit of their own 
heart ; 

27 Which think to cause my people to forget my name by 
their dreams, which they tell ever}- man to his neighbour, as their 
fathers have forgotten my name for Baal. 

28 The prophet that hath a dream, let him tell a dream ; and 
he that hath my word, let him speak my word faithfully. What is 
the chaff to the wheat? saith the Lord. 

29 7s not my word like as a fire ? saith the Lord ; and like a 
hammer that breaketh the rock in pieces ? 



304 LIFE SKETCHES OF ELDER RAYMOND. 

30 Therefore, behold, I am against the prophets, saith the 
Lord, that steal my words ever}^ one from his neighbour. 

31 Behold, I am against the prophets, saith the Lord, that 
use their tongues, and say. He saith. 

32 Behold, I am against them that prophesy false dreams, 
saith the Lord, and do tell them, and cause my people to err by 
their lies, and by their lightness ; yet I sent them not, nor com- 
manded them : therefore they shall not profit this people at all, 
saith the Lord. 

33 And when this people, or the prophet, or a priest, shall ask 
thee, saying. What is the burden of the Lord ? thou shalt then say 
unto them, What burden ? I will even forsake you, saith the Lord. 

34 And as for the prophet, and the priest, and the people, 
that shall say. The burden of the Lord, I will even punish that 
man and his house. 

35 Thus shall ye say every one to his neighbour, and every 
one to his brother. What hath the Lord answered? and. What 
hath the Lord spoken? 

36 And the burden of the Lord shall ye mention no more ; for 
every man's word shall be his burden : for ye have perverted the 
words of the living God, of the Lord of hosts our God. 

37 Thus shalt thou say to the prophet. What hath the Lord 
answered thee? and. What hath the Lord spoken? 

38 But since ye say, The burden of the Lord ; therefore thus 
saith the Lord ; Because 3^e say this word. The burden of the 
Lord, and I have sent unto you, saying. Ye shall not say. The 
burden of the Lord ; 

39 Therefore, behold, I, even I, will utterly forgety ou, and I 
will forsake you, and the city that I gave you and your fathers, 
and cast you out of my presence : 

40 And I will bring an everlasting reproach upon you, and a 
perpetual shame, which shall not be forgotten. 



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He Changes Never. 



Dedicated to Eld. W. G. Eaymond 

Tlie prayer of faith shall save the sick, and the Lord shall 
committed sins, they shall be forgiven him.'"- 

F. A. B. 



raise him up, and if he have 
-James v: 15. 



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